“Upon arriving at Casa Lü, and also as a first timer in Mexico City, I was immediately drawn to Mexican folk art. The subjects of much of my work are colorful, dreamlike creatures- not so far removed from the prancing animals showcased on Mexican folk art tapestries and sculptures. As an emerging artist, it felt like a natural step to focus my work here on folk masks as a study of identity. The masks, to me, represent exploring different aspects of one’s self. Whether depicted by devils, jaguars, or other horned beasts, the self portrayed through fearsome illustration encourages us to acknowledge even our darkest parts as they contribute to the whole and complex Being unfolding, growing, and developing behind our masks. But my intention is not to create some sinister allegory of devotion to the devil, but rather to paint these painted devils in a new, fiery and purifying light. For fire is transformative; it is passion, spark and creativity. By baptizing these multi-faced, all-seeing diablos in flames, I fertilize the soil of their souls like a controlled burn in the forest, clearing debris and allowing new life to sprout forth. And dancing merrily with every version of ourselves, who by fire are we, again.”