“Where We Built Our Dreams: Explorations of Belonging and Happy Spaces"

“Where We Built Our Dreams," explores the concept of home and its connection to our sense of belonging and happiness. Through immersive installation works, I invite viewers to explore the multifaceted nature of home and contemplate its significance in our lives.

Drawing from my lifelong practice of cataloging joy and exploring memory, I create large-scale installations that magnify moments of happiness, often in a vivid, hyperbolic form. Through my work, I delve into the fragility of joy, the significance of gratitude, and the ever-changing nature of happiness.

Using techniques traditionally associated with women's work and craft, I transform ordinary materials into monumental artworks that serve as meditations on intentionality and resilience. Each meticulously crafted piece represents countless small actions, embodying the power of perseverance, and aiming to ignite joy in the lives of the viewer.

The exhibition centers on a three-dimensional house installation constructed from thousands of hand painted mylar pieces suspended in the air that evoke a sense of wonder and playfulness. The colorful strands represent the interconnectedness of individual lives within a community, forming a vibrant tapestry of shared experiences.

In juxtaposition to the house, a life-sized weeping willow tree stands tall, symbolizing resilience and the capacity to find solace even in challenging times. The stream installation on the floor flows through the space, representing the passage of time and its connection to recollection and life history.

Throughout the exhibition a soundtrack of backyard noises, insects chirping, children’s laughter, and bird song, transport one to familiar spaces. Smaller sculptures and house shaped wall reliefs create the ambiance of a neighborhood, evoking nostalgia and childhood memories. By engaging with these familiar motifs, viewers are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences of home and contemplate the transformative power of creating safe spaces.

“Where We Built Our Dreams" invites viewers to embark on a journey of introspection, contemplating the meaning of belonging and the pursuit of happiness. It celebrates the joys of finding solace within our own environments, while also acknowledging the importance of empathy and understanding for those whose experiences may differ from our own.

Through this immersive installation, I strive to inspire a sense of connection and foster dialogue about the diverse narratives that coexist within our communities. “Where We Built Our Dreams" encourages us to find common ground, create inclusive spaces, and embrace the beauty of our shared human experiences.