Dedicated to EZ.
The flowers in this portrait represent my friend’s Port-wine Stain birthmark. Almond blossoms, which signify hope, reflect her optimistic personality and tendency to find the good in everyone. EZ’s birthmark catalyzed the overarching idea of this triptych. When getting to know each other freshman year, she opened up about the insecurity surrounding her birthmark. However, I realized I don’t consciously notice it anymore - to me, it’s part of who she is.
Medium: charcoal and etched goldleaf on toned tan paper.
Dimensions: 18 x 24 in
Dedicated to CY.
When we first O-Week of freshman year, I remember complimenting the temporary Inkbox tattoo she freehanded over her self-harm scars. While I don’t know what flowers used, I used gladiolus flowers in this. Signifying strength and integrity, I admire her for her firm beliefs and boundaries, as well as her strength to navigate her mental illness. I’m grateful that she decided to stay in this world so our lives could intersect.
Medium: charcoal and etched goldleaf on toned tan paper.
Dimensions: 18 x 24 in
Dedicated to JN.
While drawing this, I was nervous that I was remembering her imperfection incorrectly, but I was thankfully right. She has a scar next to her right shoulder blade from a surgery. Freshman summer, she told me her mom offered to let her have cosmetic surgery for it, but she saw it part of herself and no longer wanted it fixed. Peonies symbolize healing. For her, healing wasn’t just from the surgery, but also the emotional process of overcoming the insecurity.
Medium: charcoal and etched goldleaf on toned tan paper.
Dimensions: 18 x 24 in
