“Journey #2”

Mixed (ceramic, acrylic, birdhouse, and fiberglass on wood)
69 x 36 x 36
2016

Journey #2 is a mixed media piece that represents self-transcendence. It was created from a bird house that was found on the bottom of a lake, part of a mannequin, and hand sculpted ceramic figures. Each floor of the birdhouse corresponds to a level in the self- transcendence hierarchy and each figure represents examples within that level. The hierarchy starts at the bottom with physiological and safety needs. Figures represent food, shelter, sex, sleep, and protection. The next level represents love and belonging, and it includes figures of family, work. The third level from bottom focus on cognitive and aesthetic needs. The figures represent knowledge, meaning, and balance. The final, top level is self-actualization and transcendence, and the figures showing helping others and praying. Journey #2 shows all struggles and work completed within oneself and acts as a visual map of how to move beyond physical needs to be a part of something larger than oneself.

“Nest #3”

Mixed (rope, extension cord, curtains, dye, thread, cheese cloth, branches, raffia grass, bird nest, and clothing patterns on wicker and metal dress stand)
108 x 66 x 72
2014

Nest #3 was constructed from a dress maker’s stand, miscellaneous fibers and cords, a tree branch, and fabric birds. The birds were cut from a deceased loved one’s antique curtains, hand dyed, stitched together, and sewn onto the branches. Like the hues on the color wheel, the color and placement of the birds form a relationship. The body was woven together with man-made and natural materials forming a feminine root-like structure to support the tree, which supports the birds. Nest #3 represents the cycle of life- rooted and free, connected and purposeful. The beauty is better appreciated when you take a step back and see the whole picture. Nest #3 was part of the 57th Delta des Refuses exhibition at the Argenta Branch Laman Library Gallery in North Little Rock, AR.