My current work focuses on gender, art, and social media subcultures through a feminist perspective. Using ceramics and digital media, I deconstruct former beliefs and misconceptions about sexuality, intimacy, and both my online and real-life identity through the metaphorical presence of “ghosts.” Ghosts in pop culture, literature, and media have long interested our society, representing different ideas depending on the individual. How we interact with a “ghost,” or past version of ourselves, determines whether we have a positive, negative, or neutral association with certain memories. Internet culture and the rapid rise of AI technology fuel these psychological entities with an onslaught of mixed messaging, from body positivity/neutrality, fatphobia, sexual liberation, and purity culture. I struggle with the reality of accepting myself as a regular person and craving the instant gratification from strangers online desiring me. Generative AI and AI companions further blur the lines of what is socially acceptable, factual, and real, with users customizing and coding individuals/scenarios that often reinforce stereotypical gender roles and biases. 

I am drawn to utilizing both hand-built and technological processes to intersect the world of traditional craft with the fast-paced, ever-changing digital age we currently live in. Working with my hands also allows a release from algorithms and a break from the overflow of information. In contrast, using a variety of software requires constant updates and fine-tuning, necessitating online engagement and approval. Both mediums serve my quest to maintain a healthy balance of co-existence in the virtual and real worlds. I find beauty in tangible, visceral imperfections of my sculptures while also learning to make peace with my yearning for validation in perfection.