Inspiration:

When I learned that the project was personal growth, in my mind I envisioned myself breaking free from everything that holds me back - my guilt, my past, my mistakes, my insecurities - I saw all of that controlling me like a puppeteer with a marionette, but me finally deciding that is enough. Prison life, religion and ideals, broken relationships and the time wasted. Break Free captures my vision of myself letting go of everything I blamed for my mistakes and growing stronger and wiser, to finally be able to break free of those chains, and be better not only for me, but for my loved ones, my inspiration.

What role does art play in your life?

Art gives me the opportunity to be myself, even if I'm drawing something somebody else did, I can give the drawing my own touch. Mostly it gives me peace, tranquility, and helps me feel happy. My daughter, my family - they are my inspiration for everything in my life. Just knowing that they love me and need me, it gives me the inspiration to keep pushing forward and be better every day.

Artist statement:

Be soft. Do not let the world make you hard. Don't let the pain make you hate. Do not let the bitterness steal your sweetness. Take pride that even though the rest of the world my disagree, you still believe it to be a beautiful place.