Reflections of Me

© Reflections of Me, 2018, Steel, Resin, Concrete, Rebar, Terra-cotta, 6′ 2″ x 30″ (137.96cm x 76.2cm).

Originally exhibited at the Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh, in support of breast reconstruction awareness, this mixed-media figurative sculpture reflects the true spirit and resilience of breast cancer survivors.

ARTIST DIALOGUE:
“I initially declined the invitation to participate in the Breast Reconstruction Awareness (BRA) exhibit at the Warhol. As a man, I didn’t see how I could possibly create a work of art that embodied a woman’s experience with breast cancer and raise awareness about breast reconstruction. I was ultimately persuaded to participate by doing what I love – using my art to encourage an open dialogue around this very important subject. And so, I interviewed survivors and their family members. I was awed by their mental and physical resilience through a very tough journey – one that often left the survivor feeling ‘less than whole.’ So, I took the mannequin that all participating artists received…and cut it right in half. I hollowed out the bottom and created a base revealing a rebar skeleton that was clearly still under construction. I molded the head from terracotta, a strong yet fragile material, and revealed the brain to reinforce the mental angst experienced by these women. Finally, I tilted the head slightly down to look at the exposed breasts, which were mirrored to reflect the image that was once there.”