2019

The Comeback Year

May 2019. A heartbreak, a Killer’s concert, a sketchbook, a pen, a dozen repurposed canvases, Italy, and my story as a comeback kid

It all started with a little sketchbook - pen and paper. I wanted something to keep my hands busy and calm my anxiety. For a while I was doodling and sketching pretty much every day. I found peace in the intricate patterns and lines. I loved the idea of going just about anywhere and find quiet among the crowd.

Eventually I gathered the courage to pick up a brush and pallet knives once again. It felt like learning how to paint for the first time. It was incredibly frustrating but I knew there was no going back, I knew in my heart how desperately I wanted it. So I begun… this time not from scratch but from experience. I wanted every piece to feel like me. Over the course of six months or so, I could see my journey in each and every piece. I had found my voice once again. I reclaimed my freedom in my own discomfort.

Sunsets and Fireworks (July 2019) - Mixed mediums on canvas 48 x 36 in
The three circles symbolize my interconnected past, present, and future. From the most lovely sunset with my best friend, to fourth of July fireworks, the big decisions, Sunday cl — Sunsets and Fireworks (July 2019) - Mixed mediums on canvas 48 x 36 in The three circles symbolize my interconnected past, present, and future. From the most lovely sunset with my best friend, to fourth of July fireworks, the big decisions, Sunday clouds, the giving in to spontaneity and staying true to myself are all part of the inspiration behind this piece.

Guacamaya (July 2019) - Mixed mediums on canvas 48 x 60 in.
2019 marked the five year anniversary of my big move to the US. The Scarlet Macaw (Guacamaya) is Honduras' national bird and my spirit animal. This statement piece serves as a reminder that — Guacamaya (July 2019) - Mixed mediums on canvas 48 x 60 in. 2019 marked the five year anniversary of my big move to the US. The Scarlet Macaw (Guacamaya) is Honduras' national bird and my spirit animal. This statement piece serves as a reminder that a girl may leave her country, but her country will never leave her heart.

Mother (October 2019) Mixed mediums on canvas 6 x 4 ft
As the title suggests, this piece was inspired by my beloved mother. At the time we faced some challenges which triggered anxiety in me. I wanted to honor her by portraying her role in our househ — Mother (October 2019) Mixed mediums on canvas 6 x 4 ft As the title suggests, this piece was inspired by my beloved mother. At the time we faced some challenges which triggered anxiety in me. I wanted to honor her by portraying her role in our household. The tree trunk and the roots that hold our family together. She's always growing, and has a fire in her like no other.

1989 (December 2019) - Mixed mediums on canvas 4 x 5 ft
This piece was the last canvas of 2019 I painted. In it, I let go of the heartbreak I went through earlier that May and started the healing process. I now understand the power there is in sittin — 1989 (December 2019) - Mixed mediums on canvas 4 x 5 ft This piece was the last canvas of 2019 I painted. In it, I let go of the heartbreak I went through earlier that May and started the healing process. I now understand the power there is in sitting with your emotions and finally letting go. One my most powerful pieces so far.

Cafe (August 2019) - Acrylic on canvas 12 x 16 in
This particular piece takes me back to my 2013 style (prior to moving to the US). I am very passionate about coffee (particularly Honduran grown beans). It took me a whole week to fully complete this — Cafe (August 2019) - Acrylic on canvas 12 x 16 in This particular piece takes me back to my 2013 style (prior to moving to the US). I am very passionate about coffee (particularly Honduran grown beans). It took me a whole week to fully complete this piece, but I can certainly say I enjoyed the stillness it forced in me as I watched the little "coffee beans" grow. This is a style I don't often use as it is extremely time consuming and fatiguing but very worth the work.

Platanos (July 2019) Mixed mediums on canvas 24 x 36 in.
After painting "Guacamaya" I wanted to continue my focus on my heritage and all those things that made my home so special. With "Platanos" I indulge in memories of homecooked meals that includ — Platanos (July 2019) Mixed mediums on canvas 24 x 36 in. After painting "Guacamaya" I wanted to continue my focus on my heritage and all those things that made my home so special. With "Platanos" I indulge in memories of homecooked meals that included fried plantains (platanos) and savory red kidney beans.