Blossom

 “Blossom” was created for Gristle Art Gallery’s “Chromascope” group show, a show which celebrates colorful works of art. This piece was created with watercolor and gouache and measures 9” x 12” and mounted to a birch wood panel.

CHD or congenital heart defects are the most common birth defects and affect nearly 1% of babies born in the United States, I am part of that 1%. Not only was I born prematurely but also had a ventricle septal defect which is an abnormality of the two lower chambers of the heart. To date I have undergone two open heart surgeries, one at a year old and one when I was twelve. I expect to have a third sometime in my later years. While I still have a small hole in my heart and a murmur I am lucky and otherwise perfectly healthy and doing well. Growing up having visible scars was never something that directly bothered me, but I understood I was different than anyone I knew. As I got older I understood why kids would stare, but were always too afraid to ask questions. I wear my scars as a badge of honor as they have been a part of my entire life. Now in my mid thirties I run across other people who share my scars and it acts as a conversation starter because we understand each other on an entirely different level.

"Blossom" is a piece which I created which celebrates life. And while there is always a reminder that I have a hidden health issue, life can be beautiful and exactly what you make of it.

I am so happy to be able to share this very personal piece with you guys and a bit of the story behind it. I knew I wanted to find a way to illustrate my journey, but it has taken me years to find that voice. 💕

If you are interested in purchasing this piece please contact Gristle Art Gallery.