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My embroidered mandala series both represents and was created through my reclamation of the joy of being human.
I would call myself a recovering perfectionist. In my early 20s, chronic illness dashed my type-A life plan, forcing me to confront my deeply held stories about motivation and self worth. "Mandala 1 - Sunburst," came to me a few years after rediscovering the art of hand embroidery in adulthood. As I continued my mandala series and became more familiar with stitching as a form of meditation, “Mandala 2 - Raja” was born with more of a quiet presence where negative space speaks as loudly as positive space. “Mandala 3 - Painted Earth” was yet another reclamation of my freedom in both the art-making process and result. The idea that instead of completing a full mandala, I could choose to focus on one part or area of it (though only breaking a rule that was my own and self-imposed) felt revolutionary. And the un-learning didn’t stop there. As I worked this mandala in rich earth tones, taking my time, enjoying the process, I encountered my first instance of making something I really did not like. I originally worked one of the sections in a stitch that had too much texture compared to the rest of the piece. I sat with it and struggled. If these artworks are meant to be an exercise in meditation, do I need to just move on from this section and let it be? Ultimately, I did decide to pick it out and start over. I came to the conclusion that if I undo something, not out of reaction but with compassion for the the past self who was trying their best, then that is just as mindful of a choice.
"Painted Earth" serves as a reminder to move from the heart, making choices based in kindness instead of reaction. Like flowers bloom even in the desert, this mandala represents how it is always okay to begin again.
Additional Information
CARE
To keep your prints looking their best, treat them the same way you would original artwork. Use clean, dry hands when handling and hold by the edges of the print when possible to avoid getting finger smudges on the surface.
Small prints are delivered via rigid envelope and are ready-to-frame. Large prints are delivered in postal tubes and may require counter-rolling or to lay weighted on a flat, clean surface overnight to relax before framing.
The archival ink and paper these artworks utilize is known for its longevity, however, it is always best practice to hang your prints out of direct sunlight and/or frame with UV protective glass to maintain the integrity of your prints coloration.
HANDCRAFTED
Each piece is lovingly made one stitch at a time. No two are exactly alike, even those with repeated designs. Variations in color and shape are normal and part of the charm of handmade goods.
MATERIALS
I use a combination of new, vintage, antique, and reclaimed materials across my work. Please check photos and descriptions of items carefully before purchasing. Features some might think of as “imperfections” will be noted whenever possible.