Asterisk

The asterisk is a symbol used as a reference to an annotation, generally for written matter.

Within the asterisk of this piece are 6 different scenes. In one you see what looks like an abstract beach ball. In another you see what looks like a figure standing in the middle of a dessert. In another, you see one figure whispering to another.

These are meant to convey moments in the stories of our lives that need to be referenced or revisited for deeper understanding and perhaps healing.

2022 was full of moments like that for me. As a mother. As a wife. As a woman. As a creative. It’s in examining those stories that I have been able to heal and grow and discover more of who I am.

One example of that for me is dance and movement. When I was 14 years old, I was in a group with my church that did pantomimes. I revisited this story and chapter of my life this year as I battled depression, suicidal thoughts and non-optimal mental health. I discovered that movement- free and unrestricted, was incredibly healing and cathartic for me. And maybe this seems simple but because of how challenged I am rhythmically, I simply thought that sort of movement just wasn’t for me. But I discovered this isn’t true. The story we tell ourselves in our minds about what we can and cannot do will always hold the most weight.

This piece is meant to inspire questions. To inspire curiosity.

What story in your life needs revisiting? What have you buried but not mourned? What are you telling yourself in your mind about what you can and cannot do? There are many questions worthy of contemplating and figuring out answers to.

“Asterisk”

16 x 20 inches

Acrylic paint and ink on stretched canvas.