Drawing from memory I work directly with pen and ink on small wood panels. The act of drawing allows me to I access my emotions, and although not exactly conscious of what I am doing as I draw, emotions like pain, fear, sadness, and hopelessness often come out in the work. My artwork is rooted in the tradition of figurative drawing and painting, and it is through the figure that I am able to convey intense emotions. I find comfort in the act of drawing and in seeing what emerges: the images help me know that I am not alone, and I am soothed by the knowledge that my emotions, even if unspoken, can be understood and are universally shared.