My painting is representational and usually focuses on the human figure. I tend to work from memory to form images that seem real, but no longer or cannot exist. The imagery I use is derived from a slow distillation of subconscious associations and symbols. Through this distillation, I focus and discover images that accurately describe a story or situation from an almost purely emotional or irrational basis. I make paintings that I understand emotionally, but rationally cannot explain.

This characteristic of my humanity has always intrigued me. I paint in hopes of discovering why certain images and symbols recur in my work and why others feel the same connection to the work that I find so personal to me.

Additional Statement: Lotus Slippers, Golden Lilies and Bound Feet

The ideal bound foot was 3" long and shaped like a lotus bud. Only a 3" long foot could be granted the title of "Golden Lily."

The virtue of a woman was embodied in her shoe, which was usually handmade by the wearer herself. Identity, personality and facial beauty did not play into the process of engagement or marriage, only Duty to her family - either her birth family or her husband's family. Shrouded and covered by fantastical and beautiful tiny shoes, bound feet became the embodiment of the woman herself. She is summed up by a silky, ornamental surface that veiled the physical symbol of obedience and perseverance over extreme suffering.

I am fascinated equally by the beauty of lotus shoes, the brutality of bound feet and the quiet hope that mothers poured into this practice to ensure a better life for their daughters.