55 x 75 x 50 cms, plaster, paperclay, polyurethane, resin, acrylic, 2023

THE HARD PLACE

Living in today’s world can feel overwhelming, especially as a woman juggling multiple roles. The pressure to be strong, resilient, and constantly “doing more, bigger, better, faster” can be exhausting. At times, the more I rely on technology and tools to keep up, the more disconnected I sometimes feel. In those moments, I make an effort to tune into those inner spaces that ground me.

A key inspiration for this work came from a close-up image of a sea star that I discovered in a book. I kept the image in my studio for years, unsure of how it would influence my art. As I explored its characteristics, I learned about its intricate life cycles and remarkable ability to regenerate.

This resonated with me deeply as a woman, both physically and emotionally. I decided to incorporate the sea star’s form into my piece, repeating and mirroring its shapes on the back to symbolize regeneration and growth.

I chose the color black to amplify a sense of power and resilience. It’s also known for its ability to dispel negative energy, which felt fitting. The front of the piece focuses on the solar plexus, a center of personal strength, while the seated position emphasizes the importance of stillness and self-reflection in creating change.

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