
Hello Friend,
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Welcome to my online portfolio!
The shop is in progress, so for now, welcome to my online portfolio! Prints, originals, and cards are all just an email or text away.
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In a weird way, this is like inviting you into my diary. A lot of this is more symbolic than realistic, drawn more from the emotion of the moment then the actual forms, but it's real emotions from very real moments. Why do I risk sharing this? Sometimes a friend's story would remind me of a drawing or painting I'd done. Mid-conversation I'd dart off to the other room, grab the piece that their story reminded me of, rush back with it, hold it up for them and just watch their face as they recognize their own experience drawn through someone else's hand. That's when they realize they're not alone in that feeling. For all the times that this has happened, maybe, just maybe, these need to be shared.
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Most of this art is inspired by moments in life, both brief and protracted. Thanks to other's stories, I knew I'm not the only person who's had to struggle through. Even when by myself, I knew I wasn't alone, and I drew a lot of strength from that. The feeling of isolation - as if you're the only one ever to be in this place (whether carrying profound guilt, shame, violation, injustice, rage, rejection, pain, vulnerability, etc.) - is a lie. It is a false solitary confinement, and I want to help break that.
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Another strong influence in my life, and vicariously my art, is a belief solidly instilled in me by my parents - there is always something to smile about, and it's worth the effort to find it. Sometimes it's easy, other times it just takes more effort, and maybe a box or 10 of tissues. I remember the first time I felt a real smile, my smile, light up my face again after a long dark period. It felt so good! Life is amazing, and varied. People are amazing, and multidimensional. The more I listen, the more I appreciate that. If it's the darker pieces that resonate with you right now, there is deep empathy here for the struggles you're going through. If it's the lighter ones, then I'm celebrating the joy of life with you too!
With all of this, there is a big "thank you" to my parents and all the friends, and even random strangers, who have shared their stories with me, both the hard ones and the hilarious. You have added so much to my life and so many reasons to smile. You are all deeply appreciated! Thank you.
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Welcome to the gallery! I hope you find something here.
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Thank you for coming!
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Twitter: @HealingTalosian