Graphite

In 2022, I received a call one evening that my grandma had passed away. I have been extremely lucky to be unacquainted with death until now; it was like reading a new chapter. As this is where my art journey began, it shifted my perspective. Everything felt hopeless and challenging, knowing that I couldn’t find Grandma sitting on the couch watching HGTV. Place is significant to my work, as I desire to be where I find myself happiest and create these places of peace. This piece contrasts the detail in the portrait and the house against the emptiness surrounding them. The intention is to hold this last memory physically as our memories fade naturally with time. Over the years, my mourning changed into seeing her in butterflies as I drive down the highway, a reminder to relax and take everything in. I’m reminded of her by the smell of chlorine and the ocean. I see her in overly expired foods hidden in the back of the pantry and excessive amounts of holiday decorations. I see her in my grandpa, who takes care of their dog Maggie as if she were their child. I am reminded of her presence in my life constantly, which makes me remember all the beauty of life.