Blue Butterfly Series

The use of overlaid images allows me to illustrate the intricate journey I undertake to forge connections from my personal experiences and memories, enabling me to share them with the world.  I reflect on the time when I think women began to emerge from their shells and accept their standards of beauty, which seems to coincide with Marilyn Monroe's rise to fame. I find these women to be beautiful, yet I believe that true beauty runs much deeper than mere physical attraction. The bonds women can form with one another, the knowledge shared, the spiritual awakenings, and the transformative journeys we embark on all broaden my perspective. My floral creations represent my spiritual ties, but without the impact of painful memories to confront and lofty aspirations to pursue, I am uncertain of my direction. The drive to keep evolving is what fuels my creativity. This series encapsulates my growth through the challenges I have faced.

I remember realizing what "beauty" represented to society. I always thought I could never match the beauty of the models I saw in magazines and on TV. It was quite disheartening. I discovered beauty in nature instead. I experience beauty in nature because it is not crafted by humans. Witnessing the beauty that flourishes around me is a spiritual journey. Yet, it remains painful to feel less beautiful than the ideals I believed I should embody, shaped by human creations before our eyes. By crafting these intricate images, infused with the hues of emotions surrounding the figures and flowers, I aim to stimulate reflection on the beauty standards imposed on women.

Women are incredibly resilient, and I aimed to reveal to the world my perspective when I find myself engulfed in self-pity. Yet, it is the small joys in life that elevate my spirits through various forms of expression—be it drawing, painting, writing, researching, or ultimately crafting something intricate that makes me proud to showcase my achievements up to this point.

Make it stand out.

  • Acrylic and Oil Pastels on canvas, 40x40 in

    Lily of the Valley

  • Acrylic and Oil Pastels on canvas, 40x40 in

    Moth Orchids

  • Acrylic and Oil Pastel on canvas, 40x40 in

    Eastern Gladiolus

Engaging in drawing and painting has linked me to a greater spiritual force. Many of us hold a belief in some form of deity, and my intention is not to convince anyone to adopt my beliefs. Instead, I aim to illustrate how I connect with my God. This connection is forged through my memories and dreams. I find that drawing and painting, especially when creating intricate images, drive me to explore beyond my expectations. By revealing my "complications" to the world, I express my bond with God, and I aspire to foster a similar connection in others.

My inner thoughts..

Two colorful paintings of women seated and enjoying ice cream, displayed outdoors in front of a black metal railing, with a modern building in the background.