Artist Statement 

“Art should comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable.” In a world saturated with bright screens and constant noise, the deeper truths are revealed in the shadows beneath the surface. I use animation not only to explore unsettling, deeper themes but also to weave together traditional art meanings and digital methods, creating new visual narratives. Whether addressing the latest wave of technology or reflecting on mental health, viewers are invited to confront the shadowy corners of modern existence while simultaneously searching for hope in the chaos.

            My art is often a reflection of those who inspire me such as artists like Don Hertzfeldt, Shawn Cross, Bo Burnham, and Odilon Redon. Different poets are also a strong source of inspiration such as R.H Sin and Morgan Richard Olivier. These artists inspire pushing boundaries and exploring the surreal, encouraging me to investigate the contrast of light and dark within our lives. The poetry often inspires the concepts of the work while the animators and illustrators inspire the style. The historical importance of surrealism and the exploration of psychological themes create an outline for different expressions, allowing me to look into the tradition of artists who have explored similar concepts previously. Ultimately, I aspire to create animations that resonate deeply with viewers, not just on the world around us, but also on a journey to understanding through art.

            As an animator, I delve into the complexities of darker imagery and explore the depths of human emotion and experience. My work often reflects on social commentary, particularly addressing the dangers of technology and how it can impact mental health. The animations challenge viewers to confront uncomfortable truths while offering glimpses of hope and resilience. In an age dominated by technology, the dual nature of its influence as a tool for connection and isolation is inspiring. As a member of the generation that grew up around the iPad, the work confronts the codependence on technology daily, an object that often feels like it poisons the way my already foggy brain functions. The irony of simultaneously hating technology while relying on it as an artistic medium is fascinating. This juxtaposition inspires and drives the creative process, exploring how digital platforms can serve as both a source of inspiration and a barrier to true freedom and mental clarity.  

            In my work, I often am driven to more simple and nostalgic character designs to create a feeling of familiarity with the characters almost like you have known them for a while. The goal is for the viewer to feel an immediate connection to the characters so that ultimately when something bad happens to them, it will affect the viewer much more.  For backgrounds a maximalist approach filled with activity is preferred, reflecting an overstimulated mental state or the experience of cognitive decline. This contrast between straightforward character designs and intricate, chaotic backgrounds creates a confusing yet compelling juxtaposition that reflects the themes explored in my work.  

            My artistic journey is a response to the overwhelming nature of life, surrounded by the idea that art should make you a little uncomfortable. Through animation, the pursuit of uncovering new feelings within the darkness aims to encourage viewers to confront unsettling themes while searching for hope amid the chaos. By blending simple character designs with overstimulating backgrounds, a visual narrative is created that mirrors the complexities of the human mind within the digital age. Ultimately my goal is to create a meaningful conversation between technology. Mental health, the human condition, and my own experiences invite audiences to reflect on their journeys and the shared struggles we face in navigating a world that is both dazzling and disorienting.