In my work, I aim to capture the intricacies and complexities of what it means to connect. The

juxtaposition of Valparaiso’s tangled telephone wires against deeply cultural and community landmarks serves as a visual metaphor for how we relate to each other and our surroundings.

On one hand, the wires are a symbol of modern communication—efficient but sometimes impersonal. They criss-cross above us, forming networks that both unite and separate us. On the other hand, we have timeless symbols like the statue of Jesus or the architecture of a tightly-knit community—representations of deeply human, age-old ways of connecting that involve belonging, tradition, and a shared sense of place. By placing these elements together in the frame, I wish to spark a dialogue about the multiple dimensions of connection, from the personal to the societal, and prompt viewers to reflect on what connection means in the context of their own lives.

I am so happy to be a part of the “Connections” exhibit in Inwood. Thanks to Art on the Ave and curator Ruthy Valdez for including my work. And I hope you enjoy seeing my work as well as all the other artists on display.