I do not attempt to contrive beauty, but seek to find it in reality. I am drawn to beauty in the material world I find myself in. With my subjects, I highlight human sensitivity through body language, textiles, ornate patterns, color, and light in order to convey emotions that are often subtle and undefined. I do this with the hope of fostering an understanding between the viewer and myself. As an oil painter, I combine traditional Renaissance techniques with the use of modern technology in order to be efficient, detailed, and accurate in my process. By continuing the practices of the old masters, I aim to subtly challenge Western perceptions of women’s roles in society while reflecting on my own experiences as both a woman and a young adult in the present day.