Loneliness is something that all are familiar with, and continues to become more prominent within the American workforce. In order to survive, our workdays grow longer and more numerous, leaving little time for social interaction. Isolation becomes a well-known sensation, and overtime transforms into something almost comforting. It changes into a warm blanket to which we retreat in times of distress or overwhelm. As modern American individualism pushes society toward disconnection, it becomes increasingly more important to daily pull back the covers and face discomfort for the sake of human connection and community. 

Conceptually my work draws from nature, memories from childhood, and the creatures that surrounded me growing up. Floral imagery and symbolism offers a nearly universally understood language - friendship and condolence, peace and apology - while animals offer simpler, more honest reflections of ourselves. I believe there is something profound to be learned from creatures that are capable of living and operating together so effortlessly and magnificently. Community comes to them as an instinct, and I believe that humans are - at our roots - no different.

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Printmaking is a deeply personal and intimate process, requiring great consideration and intent for every line and mark. For me, the art of printmaking and the community surrounding it provide an alternative to my own warm blanket of seclusion.  In keeping with the concept of community building and in honor of my rural southern upbringing, quiltmaking is frequently incorporated into my work. Both printmaking and quilting are built upon communities of artists connecting and creating together to better their craft, perfectly supporting the intentions behind my pieces.

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Neutral, earthy color palettes echo the quietness of isolated southern life. Dark blues, greys, and browns evoke the coldness and emptiness of loneliness, while warmer colors suggest renewal, togetherness, and revival. Gentle, delicate mark-making is a defining feature of my practice; it allows viewers to perceive the animals and florals of my childhood just as I remember them - peaceful and innocent. I am especially drawn to stark contrast - particularly within my relief work - as a way to show that both light and darkness are essential to completing an image, reflecting that solitude can be essential for recharging even as connection with a loving community remains vital.