These works, all done in early 2018, reflect conflict and divisiveness. I wanted to explore ego and intentional hostility. Why is it so prevalent? Why are we at each other, struggling? As an artist, I seek to understand emotions and the energy around me. Through the making of most new paintings, I often come to a place of resolution and I feel a sense of accomplishment when I finish up. In this case, however, I find absolutely NO resolution in tackling this topic.  These figures resist and do not win. Women are under attack.

  

For the record, I'm not okay with a resigned acceptance of our worst selves. Discord, uncertainty and fear, while front and center in the media, are not satisfying. There is no inspiration that floats sweetly off an aggressively worked canvas. It is not an emotion I can sustain. Physically I became drained. And the more I mined my own fears, tapping into historical references, particularly Greek mythology and it's violence and mysogynist attitudes about women, the worse I felt.  I have no answers, just grave concern.

While beauty will always be my muse, I do wonder at the purpose of creating any art, and the self-satisfying experience of making it. What if I tone down the ugliness, provide a counter point, another direction to turn towards?  Can my work be both commentary and a safe place? Hide here, my friends...this is what I'd like to offer: It will be okay.

But I don't know just how soon it will all be okay. Negativity and harshness are trending. 

As I finish up this series of figures, I decided that it's time for a pivot. I will be seeking a new muse. And it begins with the rediscovery of quietude and hope. When I need solace, I go inward. But I promise to return, leaving the door open for you to join me.