Senior show printmaking series drypoint/line etch on copper. Click on prints to enlarge!

"Aparigraha"

The concept of non-possessiveness, which I have learned about through my yoga practices. The term usually means to limit possessions to what is necessary or important, which changes with the time period. This print relates to my life while I struggle to let go of people or posessions that surround me. The figure is clutching an object with force, to demonstrate a literal struggle with "letting go" Now that I am practicing this concept more often, I find myself able to give more positive energy to the most important people in my life. Possessions clutter my mind, take up precious time and energy that could be more effectively directed towards that/those who matter.

"Phenomenally"

This print was inspired by Maya Angelou's Phenomenal Woman. Representing a female figure who has strength and confidence.

Pretty women wonder where my secret lies

I'm not cute or built to suit a model's fashion size

But when I start to tell them They think I'm telling lies.

I say It's in the reach of my arms

The span of my hips

The stride of my steps

The curl of my lips.

I'm a woman

Phenomenally

Phenomenal woman

That's me.

I walk into a room

Just as cool as you please

And to a man

The fellows stand or Fall down on their knees

Then they swarm around me A hive of honey bees.

I say It's the fire in my eyes

And the flash of my teeth

The swing of my waist

And the joy in my feet.

I'm a woman

Phenomenally

Phenomenal woman

That's me.

Men themselves have wondered

What they see in me

They try so much

But they can't touch

My inner mystery.

When I try to show them

They say they still can't see.

I say It's in the arch of my back

The sun of my smile

The ride of my breasts

The grace of my style.

I'm a woman

Phenomenally

Phenomenal woman

That's me.

Now you understand

Just why my head's not bowed

I don't shout or jump about

Or have to talk real loud

When you see me passing

It ought to make you proud.

I say It's in the click of my heels

The bend of my hair

The palm of my hand

The need for my care. '

Cause I'm a woman

Phenomenally

Phenomenal woman

That's me.

-Maya Angelou

"Lotus"
Lotus pose in Sanskrit is Padmasana and many of the eastern texts say that Padmasasna destroys disease and awakens kundalini, or the energy force within. There are also many other benefits of this pose. Simple and calming, something I am still striving for with my inner spirit. The lotus is also a remarkable flower in its outer beauty and its symbolism of purity within the heart and mind, long life, health, and honor.