Out of the Closet

Artist Statement

I’ve gotten to know a bit about the people in my neighborhood by observing the contents of their clothesline. I always enjoy surveying the range of bath towel colors and sheet patterns. Sometimes I amuse myself by imagining stories about the lives of the people who wear the disembodied clothing I see swaying on a line. The subject in my painting is embracing authenticity in a unique way. Coming out is a time of celebration, reflection, and authenticity for an individual as well as for society - breaking the silence is about claiming your own sense of self-worth and refusing to let societal norms dictate how you live your life. True acceptance starts with self-acceptance. Only when we accept ourselves can we be ready to accept others.