Together, from 2020 we were isolated, immobilized, powerless, and fearful as violence escalated locally and abroad. There was much talk of protecting oneself, one's speech, and one's community. In my studio, I looked at a blank canvas, opened my flat files, and took an old stack of collage paper – among them, targets. I researched the usage of this symbol and similar practices that produced the “Bullseye series” by artist Jasper Johns from 1955-1961. Reluctantly, I thought, how do I take something offensive, viscerally disturbing, and raw that symbolizes the fear I was experiencing into something beautiful and healing?

Disassembling the image in front of me began the creative process. I took the figure in my hand, started at the top, and tore strip after strip from top to bottom. Then, something beautiful happened! I rearranged the pieces into new free-flowing forms, lines, and shapes on the canvas. Next, I applied bright, bold colors with oil paints and scraped the finish with broad strokes, further moving the images. Finally, I stopped and stepped back, remaining still so I could study and search for more inspiration as the oil paints dry. This pause catalyzed my imagination to take off again as I reapproached the painting with oil sticks, pastel pencils, and markers. More hidden images would appear and emerge from the layers. I knew the piece was complete when the canvas vibrated in a beautiful rhythmic motion all on its own, as the painting would stop talking to me.

My deep love of our humanity – its paradoxical virtues of love and compassion, in contrast with the imperfections of this world – has inspired this anti-violence exhibition - "Chaos in Order."