ARTIST STATEMENT:

Everything in life has some form of layers. I believe a person’s layers are divided by their social standing and their well-being. I believe strongly in speaking my mind as a person and as a woman who suffers from health issues.
My grandfather, who I admired as a little girl, died when I was nine from cancer. The cancer was caused from smoking. Cancer runs in my family, so this issue to me is a cause for concern as an individual who was diagnosed two years ago with Poly-Cystic Ovarian Syndrome. A possible side effect for this health problem is cancer if not treated. My motivation came from the topic of cancer, but I have narrowed it down to smoking due to the fact that it is one of the number one causes of cancer today.
This series of mixed media paintings consists of seven pieces of various sizes, but no larger than 18x24. I took the social standing of smoking and combined it with its health risks on an individual. The canvases are plastered with pictures of smoking ads, articles about smoking, and pictures of people affected by smoking. I have one figure drawn that stretches upon all seven canvases. When displayed, all seven pieces create an overlapping series. On each canvas, I have represented how smoking affects that particular part of the human body. Each has a very organic feel, which is inspired by my fascination with nature and the human form. The natural elements that are in cigarettes such as sugar and honey are some of the elements that are also applied to each piece.

Exhibitions/Awards:

Art Performance Scholarship, Southern Arkansas University. 2003- 2008
Highest Merit Award Winner, Magnolia Sidewalk Art Show. 2003 Student Exhibition, Southern Arkansas University. 2007 Senior Exhibition, Southern Arkansas University. 2008