Threads of Reconstruction

Threads of Reconstruction consists of four sculptures that explore the complex process of growth and transformation. With the concept of metamorphosis, I create works that use pupae as symbolic self-portraits, depicting the different stages of evolution I have experienced. The sculptures, ranging from ½” to 53”, are made from a variety of materials including fabric, expandable foam, resin, yarn, paper clay, and pins. The imagery and material were chosen to add personal and emotional meaning to the work, such as the patterned fabric used to recall a childhood memory or the use of glass eyes to represent my curiosity yet hesitation about the outside world. Beyond its visible form, the process I used for each of my works portrays personal growth and meditation. For instance, the act of sewing symbolizes the link that I am making between my dreams and my life—to join my reality and my dreams into one path. I used resin to “encapsulate” my fears of uncertainty and leave them behind.  Through each sculpture, I encourage the viewer to perceive the feelings of confusion, conflict, perseverance, and acceptance that thread through the action of transformation and reflect on how they came to who they are today.