Inspiration:

Being incarcerated comes with so many challenges and after being released, trying to fit into a community is really hard because of all the stereotypes that being in prison brings. My inspiration is that geometric pieces trying to fit like a puzzle. The roots of the tree represent your own personal growth, growing even in the worst adversity like a tree in a hurricane. The woman's face is the beauty of it, the beauty of your journey. The black background is the dark past that follow us.

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.