My purpose in creating this exhibition is to showcase the complexity of different ideas and how one concept can represent countless others. Some of the imagery in my works represents the imagination and wonder of childhood, as demonstrated in my oil paintings that depict a chapter from the story of The Little Prince. Others represent my struggles with religious conformity, and my journey of breaking past self-doubt and into self-discovery. These concepts have seeped into many of my works, which take shape through unconventional forms of self-expression.

 

My work tells a story of breaking through constricting religious norms and embracing the things that make you unique.

 

Depictions of sheep as an artistic concept contain many facets of symbolism. Sheep may represent innocence, gentleness, peace, togetherness, and purity at best - and timidness, hesitation, conformity, fear, and blind faith at worst. Growing up on a farm, sheep remind me of home, comfort, and family.

 

My upbringing in the Catholic church further strengthens my childhood connection with sheep. The Bible refers to sheep in many contexts; sheep may be used symbolically to refer to God’s followers. Sheep were often used as sacrificial animals in biblical times, and Jesus Christ is referred to as the “sacrificial lamb” or the “Lamb of God.” Christ also described himself as a shepherd for his people.

 

Sheep are said to sometimes wander from the flock, though the flock and the shepherd are the sheep’s greatest source of safety. Jesus spoke of a lamb that had strayed so far from the flock that it became lost, but Jesus left the flock to search and find the lost lamb. “Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost.” Luke 15:6

 

But why, when the sheep strays from the safety of the flock, is she deemed lost? Why is her kindness, innocence, and gentleness plagued by passivity and self-doubt? Why is her innocence sacrificed to atone for the sins of the guilty? Why has she been bred to blindly follow until she finds her legs bound and her body limp on the altar? These are the kinds of questions I raise through my creations.

 

I use a variety of materials in my artmaking process. I love trying new things, and I always seek new experiences in both life and my creations. I started with graphite, pen and ink, and charcoal drawings; as my education continued, I ventured into acrylic, watercolor, and oil paintings. I’ve also dabbled in ceramics, sculptures, collages, printmaking, and design. I found it difficult to adhere to just one specialty, but I find that variety is something I wanted to showcase in this exhibit.

 

My inspiration stems from the art of the Impressionist Movement and the Renaissance period, as well as the work of many queer artists throughout history. I quickly fell in love with the visible brushstrokes and loose visuals of impressionism. Particularly, the work of Monet, Tails Jekel, and Van Gogh is some of my greatest influences.

 

Thank you for exploring my senior exhibit. I am so excited to finally be able to share my art with my family, friends, peers, and community. I hope my work encourages its viewers to reflect on their challenges, accomplishments, and surroundings with a fresh, imaginative perspective.