BFA, Studio Art
Single Discipline Focus (Print & Narrative Forms)
Artist Statement
Are we done yet, Can we be done yet, Why does this keep happening?
Are we done yet, Can we be done yet, Why does this keep happening? is a series of prints depicting animals in dire situations with an emphasis on danger and isolation. The subject of each print is in the forefront of compositions with a vibrant color palette, emphasizing the contrast between the underlying emotional context of the imagery and the more surface level visuals of bright colors. Throughout the work, I explore the nuances of social interactions and my interpersonal relationships as a transgender individual with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). A variety of printmaking techniques are used to convey how a variety of skills and tools are required when learning to cope with emotional dysregulation. These processes help in learning how to regulate emotional reactions, problem-solve, and create a sense of awareness and presence that are vital to coping with BPD. The limited color palette of pinks and blues creates a foundational through-line in each piece, representing how a transgender identity acts as a foundation for relationships and interactions with others in social situations. Using animals as subjects to portray myself, each illustration evokes a sense of derealization and lack of self that comes with BPD. This series calls into question how BPD can affect the brain and distort a person’s perspective. The repetition of similar themes and visuals across the works forces us to ask ourselves; are we done yet? Can we be done yet? And why does this keep happening?
