Fine art is a creative outlet which enables me to express myself and how I perceive the world around me.  The search for truth often leads me think about certain aspects of my life in a compulsive manner.  Therefore, I draw about my thoughts in order to expel them from my head and to ultimately make sense of them.    I use drawing as a form of visual storytelling and am inspired by how my life experiences shape my identity.  There are many things that inform my drawing style such as macabre imagery, Old Master drawings, and Baroque era paintings.  In the same manner, I enjoy watching television shows and movies with supernatural themes to inspire my drawings.    I’m interested in obsessive mark making as a cathartic process.  Letting my subconscious dictate my pieces allows me to lose myself when I draw which helps me deal with my emotions. I am a very patient individual and I exploit that when I draw.  I explore the use of dry media such as charcoal and ballpoint pens, layering the material, often for hours at a time, to slowly and meticulously create value in my drawings.  It’s a process that requires focus and discipline but it brings me a sense of calm.    My recent body of work is influenced by fear, frustration, and heartache as a result of coming to terms with my sexuality.  The body, masks, and faces, often drawn from memory, are recurring motifs in my drawings which serve as metaphors about how I was affected by my emotional experiences.  I’m a quiet and reserved individual and I explore those qualities in my work.  As a result, I purposefully obscure some parts of my drawings or have them emerge out of darkness to evoke a sense of mystery.  The resulting imagery is often stark yet intimate and reflects my emotions.        The creation of art not only allows me to express myself but also to persevere in the face of adversity.  As a result, I’ve developed a strong work ethic which motivates me to learn more in order to solve problems. In an era of contemporary art, I value the importance of exploring new ideas and disciplines in my art making practices. Therefore, I truly believe that keeping an open mind is essential which will not only strengthen my work but diversify it as well.