Artist Statement

Femininity and what it means to be a woman in today’s politically charged society is an idea that is constantly on my mind. Growing up as a plus-size girl in a world that commands young women to fit into the beauty standard, I did not feel that my thoughts and ideas would be welcomed, let alone listened to. Making art about myself was never a consideration; I did not think I was beautiful enough to be the focal point. The media portrays people who fit the standard of beauty.  Fat people are represented in art in a way that is meant to highlight the grotesque. In my art, I want to show a personal perspective and the conflicting thoughts that I have about myself, which stem from the narrative we are fed by the media. Making art about my own body has been a cathartic experience. I have been forced to look closely at myself for longer periods, longer than I feel comfortable with, to capture the details. I was forced to look at myself with kinder eyes, and in the process, I learned more about myself.

I want my art to be relatable to others who have had the same experience. Additionally, I want those who have not, to also be able to empathize with these emotions. To create a more interactive viewing experience, I use the printmaking medium to build 3D works. Separating layers into individual pieces, building a 3D work reminiscent of pop-up books. To see all of the details in the work, you must walk around to see underneath and between all of the layers.