interactive family

Braiding

In many of my self- portraits braids are a part of my artistic visual language. I have always found braids to show strength within a humble feminine frame. Exploring the metaphorical aspect of the braid as well as literal synonyms, I was led to personal connections I never considered before. A biblical reference to the braid from Ecclesiastes 4:12 reveals that “ A cord of three strands is not easily broken.” Although this is speaking of the mystery of the indwelling spirit, it also implies that things woven together are strong. I decided to reflect on braids or ties within my childhood, which may help explain why my family of nine is so close. The interactive wooden magnets allow the viewer to create and meditate on their own stories, through a variety of iconic images and paintings. These magnetic pieces are my own self portraits- made of paintings and symbols and colors that reflect a story of my own. I have created them to be interactive because my life is not just about me. How I affect people, love people, hurt people, is also another person's story.