My work examines the weight we carry and the journeys we are on. As someone with a complex internal dialog, I see visual metaphors in ordinary moments; particularly in the Midwestern landscape. I often imbue landscapes with meaning (pareidolia), history, and personification. Pareidolia is a cognitive and psychological phenomenon sometimes associated with cognitive threat detection and flexibility which often aids emotional healing.

The mirrored images of tree branches and root systems reference the ink blots of historical Rorschach tests (example of pareidolia) and signal bilateral stimulation, a key component of trauma therapies such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). These layered images reflect nature-based and psychological care practices that can positively impact psychological well-being

Winter marks the end of one season and beginning of the next, while also symbolizing death, struggle, renewal, rebirth, and transience, and hope, rest, and recovery. Snow quietly transforms the landscape in a peaceful and brutal manner; returning beauty and order to the harvested fields and bringing nutrients and protection to the seeds of native plants. Snow represents peace, purity, and light while simultaneously encompassing themes of melancholy, death, and immense silence.

After experiencing a series of traumatic losses and betrayals in a short period of time (2016-2019), I was encouraged to take a hiatus from my studio practice (2021-2023) and other things to focus on recovery. The focus on rest and the development of resources through a combination of parts-based therapy, emdr, and evidence-based nature-centered psychological interventions has reignited clarity and energy in my creative research. I am thankful to the psychologists and researchers who seek to bring specific and proven nature-based care into our lives, and to my family and community, my therapist, and of course, Mother Nature and the Trees.