Take a Deep Breath, 2023, digital collage | artist statement 

“Take A Deep Breath” explores the catharsis of vengeful grief in the lifelong aftermath of sexual abuse. In the 1600s, Artemisia Gentilseschi completed one of her most iconic and, during her time, controversial masterpieces, Judith Slaying Holofernes. In contrast to other depictions of the biblical story, Gentilisechi depicted both Judith and her servant, Abra, as active and decisive attackers upon Holofernes. The artist Gentilsechi created the painting after being raped by a close friend of her fathers. Even more tragically, Gentisechi’s female chaperone colluded with the rapist’s plans. A popular interpretation of this work says it served as a way for Gentisechi to process her own grief through the biblical story of Judith; Her grief for both the lack of protection afforded to her and the injustice she experienced.

Exhibited at Urban Arts Gallery & Lost Acorn Gallery.