Exciting News! My painting, “A Heavy Privileged Choice,” was awarded Second Place in d’Art Center’s Portrayed 4 Annual Juried Art Show! Figurative painter, Mark E Miltz was the co-curator and judge of this wonderful show.
I painted “A Heavy Privileged Choice,” as I wrestled with the conflicting emotions of an unexpected high-risk pregnancy. I weighed its impact on my family, my physical and mental health, and my future as an artist. This coincided with the overturning of Roe vs. Wade. I felt fortunate to live in a state where abortion was still allowed up to 26 weeks, yet I was enraged that this choice was no longer available nationwide.
The weight of this decision became even more apparent when life-limiting complications were detected during my 20-week ultrasound. Despite the intense worry and weekly ultrasounds throughout the pregnancy, we were fortunately able to welcome another healthy baby girl into our family.
I mourn for the dehumanizing loss of bodily autonomy for millions of women in the U.S. I fear what further restrictions may come for future generations. Of course, the situation has only become more dire. As the mother of three daughters, I feel guilt and grief.
Juror Notes
Mark Miltz said, “This piece resonates because of the extremely specific explorations of personal symbology. This is truly laying oneself bare, and opening that up to the world. The technique is not unique, but the use of it here is elevated by its honesty. The strong design, the use of framing that works in concert with the wood substrate of the painting feels genuine, rather than derivative. It is a masterful and courageous visual representation of an internal search.” `
Receiving the thoughtful critique of an esteemed artist is such a gift! This is the first juried show I have been a part of that has been so kind to livestream the Juror’s comments and transcribe them for the artists.
Art Gallery
The d’Art Center is a community art center in Norfolk, Virginia’s NEON district. It was modeled after the Torpedo Factory Art Center in Alexandria, VA.