Toys facilitated my imagination and desire to create at an early age. The act of play was a catalyst for me to pursue the arts and instilled in me an enthusiasm that has consistently fueled my work to this day. With the toy tableaux paintings, I can honor the origin of my creative process, while infusing the seemingly playful narratives with self-reflection and commentary on current social issues. With toys used as symbols in the constructed narratives, I can interweave commentary on topics ranging from environmental concerns, gun rights, native activism, and even art criticism. It is my hope that the lighthearted veneer entices the viewer to look beyond the surface, and acknowledge the concept that informed each painting.
