2024. Oil on canvas. 54"x72"
 
This painting fetures a local model I met at the Rochester Artist Collaborative. In this painting she is sitting on the swing in her backyard, yellow flowers bloom around here. Mercedes is the same age as me, lives at home, and is also trying to pursue her passion. 
 
I have memories of the exact same swing from my childhood. The backyard is both a shared and personal space ingrained in suburban American life. There is beauty and calm; hidden fantasy and magic in the private but outdoor space. This piece deals with familiar imagery, space, and memories those who grew up in the suburbs share. The introduction of fantastical flowers remind us to look for everday beauty and the possibility of something amazing.