When I work with the human figure, I expect to open a discussion for the transformative aspect of gender roles. Often I am drawn to bold and heroic figures for their sense of fairness. This has become relevant during my search for equality as a transgendered individual. Growing up with images of cartoons such as Popeye, with his vanquishing of bullies, helped me perceive heroes or heroines as arbitrators of right and wrong. In my work I have allowed Popeye to experience my life and lessons.

I’ve dressed Popeye in high heels and a skirt made by the lithophane process. The skirt illustrates images of push puppets and the roles they play in my altered reality.

I want to create positive images to help counterbalance the depression so often experienced by transgendered people in response to their challenging of societal norms. I hope to uplift and empower through my work as I poke fun at these aspects of myself for their perceived ridiculousness by society’s standards---and beyond that fun, I want to convey at least a kernel of truth.

My current work incorporates the lithophane process, applying it to a sculptural format. Lithophanes are translucent porcelain objects which when backlit reveal detailed three-dimensional imagery. I am drawn to the lithophane aesthetic for two reasons. First, a lithophane conveys the preciousness inherent in ceramics through its fragility---and thus its correlation to the challenged human spirit. Second, the light that shines symbolizes a way to lead all of us through darkness and, in so doing, reveals the unknown.