I THINK & I KNOW

Solo Exhibition
Art Hacker Gallery
Los Angeles, CA, 2023

This series of self-portraits reflects the discomfort often associated with personal growth and the mindful practice of simply existing. Centered around the effect personal narrative has on mental health, I chose to explore the tension between interpretation, authenticity, and how to embrace the stress of ambiguity as part of the journey toward self-acceptance.

The black-and-white contrast of the work represents my version of the "absolute". The life casts represent tangible, easily recognizable reality, while the black linework is my fictional narrative – unsure of its shape, yet also a real object in space.

To further accentuate this, I created the molds without assistance, contorting my physical body into uncomfortable positions for lengthy periods. There is no growth without change, and change is uncomfortable.