Artist Statement

My work explores the tension between the personal and the universal, deconstructing spaces, objects, and narratives to disrupt and reimagine what feels familiar. I combine materials such as written words, illustrations, photography, repurposed clothing, and sonic samples to craft pieces that evoke unease, provoke reflection, and challenge perceptions.

Over the past two years, I have expanded my practice to include poetry by creating Pocket Poems. These hand-made, small, illustrated books combine hand-written poems with rhythmic and surreal drawings. My work explores grief, love, and lost histories through personal symbols and mythological elements. By reinterpreting silenced narratives through a queer lens, I reflect on resilience, identity, and cultural loss from a contemporary perspective.

As the host of TOAST Open Mic Poetry, I have embraced a more communal and accessible dimension to my art. Hosting and performing my Pocket Poems has allowed me to connect with audiences in unfiltered ways, creating spaces where poetry feels immediate and inclusive. Through prompts like "Amplified Alliteration," I encourage participants to engage with poetic devices and explore abstract themes, nurturing creativity and connection.

Performance is integral to my practice. In my visual art, I’ve used static gestures to evoke tension and confinement, contrasting with the dynamic, emotive presence I bring to my poetry readings. Whether visual or spoken, my work aims to evoke strong emotional reactions and inspire others to reflect on overlooked materials and histories. By weaving together personal narratives and cultural reflections, I invite audiences to reimagine how the past, present, and future intersect in transformative ways.