161 hours
25 inches x 33 inches Framed
Prints available
I was fortunate to discover my passion for art six years ago, and it has become my dream to draw for the rest of my life. In discovering my own passion, I also became fascinated with others’ dreams and their quests to bring them to life. Should we keep our dreams to ourselves or should we share them with the world? Are dreams stronger when held in silence or do they gain power when spoken out loud?
I am most inspired by those who have been through heartbreaking experiences and find a way to turn those emotional or physical scars into things of beauty. I was sexually assaulted in college and had to deal with all kinds of pain. When I was able to work through this pain, I realized that I was stronger than I ever imagined. My art was instrumental to my healing. I became confident in myself, in my dreams, and in my journey. I wanted the world to see that I was still here.
My work depicts individuals who wear their experiences outwardly and proudly, people who take their pain and suffering and use it to fuel their growth. When something devastating happens to us, we each have a difficult choice to make. We can let that event become a yoke around our neck that will slow us down or completely halt our journey. Or we can wear it, own it, and change it into a demonstration of our hope, our passion, our strength, and our perseverance. We can turn it into a crown that we wear to show the world that nothing can stop us. You challenge us? We use that as ammunition to pursue our dreams.
With this piece of work, Misshattan, I am showing the strength and beauty of a woman gracefully holding the weight of the city on her head. Manhattan is notorious for being an iron beast that will chew you up and spit you out if you let it. Misshattan holds its weight with ease, and looks up to the sky to show her confidence in her journey. She is ready to take on the next challenge, while wearing her accomplishments of her past for all to see.