Artist Statement
The submitted paintings reflect my ongoing examination of complex emotions associated with tears and bruises. For me, they are not necessarily a sign of weakness; although crying and hurting are commonly regarded as an expression of sadness and vulnerability, I am more drawn to the mixed emotions and complicated motives behind those visible cues -- especially the strength and firmness that is contradictory to the stereotypical impression of tears and bruises. These paintings showcase a wide spectrum of my true and conflicted inner world through fictional narratives and characters -- every day I find myself dealing with joy and pain concurrently, and I know I’m not alone.
