My new work involves continued exploration, where emotion is the main protagonist, rather than the storytelling that characterized the Shadow series. It focuses on the push-and-pull between dissociation and deep need for connection. My aim is to portray the epidemic of distraction and avoidance that we are experiencing, investigating why being present can feel like an insurmountable challenge.

In this painting, the position of the person can be seen as sensual or vulnerable- is she being submissive or is she trying to dig her way out of somewhere, seeking to be Elsewhere? The hands and muted bodies symbolize the appeal and seduction to distract ourselves when we are seeking to be avoidant. In contrast, the burning red glow is the deep underlying desire to be present and interconnected, to truly live life. The network underneath is an ode to our root as humans and our inherent oneness. ​

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Slide through gallery below for close-up details. Click for full-screen view.