Sacred Shields for Broken Spirits

Artist Statement

My art explores ideas of injustice in contemporary culture and how we reclaim both autonomy and freedom when we arm ourselves with knowledge. The work is inspired by the Say Her Name, Me Too and Black Lives Matter movements as well as poetry, literature, sculpture and music. The work is derived from the ancient idea that shields possess spiritual power and protect us from violence.

My iconography includes words, broken wings, weaponry, multiple moons and rectangular geometric forms. The shields are highly textured paintings, with layers of wax, oil and other improvised medium, built upon wooden panels. The color palette is limited to three or four colors, with strong contrast. The visual effect is of fractured stone, weathered bone and luminous light.

My ongoing exploration of shields for broken spirits exposes difficult truths in our society and within ourselves. The work is a humble acknowledgement of what we lose when we cut short, stigmatize or terrorize another human life. I honor those who have perished in the struggle and offer hope that we can collectively heal broken spirits — and that we can all be free.