I have always erred on the side of observation— admiring the diversity of the world every day, as well as the diversity of people and their experiences. Human beings are incredibly interesting and complex creatures; the physical existence of humans is intriguing because we are all so different. We are a mosaic of different body types and shapes, different skin colors, and different experiences and world views.

The way that I choose to investigate this curiosity of mine is by painting the human figure and addressing the social phenomenon of body insecurity. My work draws attention to bodily insecurities in a way opposite to how models may be photoshopped to be perfectly smooth and free of cellulite and skin discoloration. I continually challenge my own internal conflict as well as the societal conflict of what makes a “beautiful” body.

How do we define beauty as a society? Why do we have to define beauty? Why have we been taught to see natural occurrences as features that should be concealed?