Your Voice Matters

I grew up without a voice—figuratively and literally.

I lost my voice, literally, to selective mutism, a trauma response in moments when I would shut down in pure terror and be temporarily unable to speak. The best way to stay safe was to become invisible and stay silent.

Art gave me my voice back. I paint hands because they represent active participation. These hands, which I often combine with floral imagery, remind me that I don’t have to disappear; in fact, I have something unique and powerful to contribute during this fleeting life, which it is not only a privilege but a duty to share as I seek to leave fingerprints of beauty on the world.

My voice is valuable, and so is yours. I hope my art and the community around it will become a place where you can feel safe to let yourself be seen and heard. The world needs your fingerprints too.