Brace Yourself for the Trials to Come, but don’t Break Yourself Trying to Overcome

2021

graphite, watercolor, illustration pens, Faber-Castel pens, black and red India ink, and gesso

6x6in.

This work has two meanings. The first references previous works addressing stress and its physical manifestation and underlines the importance or self-recovery. There’s nothing wrong with taking time to rest. Being tired, sore, and exhausted is a natural part of hard work is a byproduct of the body and mind exerting force. The second meaning addresses the changes an individual encounters in pursuit of their goals. We’ve all heard the stories of money, fame, and hardship changing a person into the very thing they “vowed” to never become, but there’s only so much a person can take. The easiest choice is not always the right one and the most comforting outcome is sometimes just a mirage. The title is a double entendre persuading the viewer to take time to relax and reflect to keep from imploding or exploding into something unrecognizable.