An Ode to You
“An Ode to You” is a three-part series of the metamorphosis of allowing the hidden feelings of my inner child to be set free, be present, and queer. Using the techniques of Haitian carnival mask making, the masks brings my true hidden feelings of anger, confusion, sadness, and fluidity to the surface.
Each piece showcases my defining life stages of transformation and allows me to reflect on my transition to finally see myself; to heal and forgive my inner child for hiding who I was and allow those expressions and emotions to come to the surface.
I use elements of dried plants, flowers, and natural textiles: silk, cotton, silk and wool blend and dyed with indigo, kamala, and logwood along with photographs from my family album.
“The Cry,” Mixed Media/textiles
“The Cry” is the first time I acknowledged my sadness and frustration while noticing a recurring pattern in my life that I keep hidden. I let it build up until I couldn’t anymore.
“Fluid,” Mixed Media/textiles
“Fluid” is the discovery of my duality; you are more than one thing. You have always been more. Fluid is the complexity of being - a coming to terms with the different varieties of myself.
“The Butterfly,” Mixed Media/ textiles
“The Butterfly” is the final form of letting my inner child feel free; healing from trauma and moving away from comfort.