Final Artist Statement.

In my work I explore a concept that I describe best as emotional slavery. While there are not tangible restraints forcing one to be present against their will, this is a state of being in which one feels captive within any relationship. Guilt and fear of regret become the metaphorical chains that coerce people together. Due to the lack of literal bondage, contact with a person becomes an individual choice, allowing for inner conflict to arise. These obligations compel one to continue a relationship, while external circumstances form the desire for it to end. I have chosen to work large-scale with chalk pastels to boldly confront the viewer with the vividness of this raw, emotional experience.