“When I created Penelope, my goal was to explore the connection between vulnerability and the human condition. She’s laying there, gazing back, and there’s an undeniable invitation in her look—a moment that asks you to pause and reflect. How do you feel when you see her? Are you drawn to her openness, or does it make you uncomfortable? This work isn’t just about her; it’s about you, the viewer, and how you process vulnerability.

For me, this piece touches on the deep, human need to be seen and accepted, even in our most fragile moments. It’s about the longing to experience a sense of awe and delight, to feel completely present in being, and to share that presence with others. I hope Penelope encourages people to question their own comfort with vulnerability and to consider how they embrace—or resist—being truly seen.

This fine oil painting, 24x24" on canvas, is currently on display at the Morean Art Center in downtown St. Petersburg as part of the 10th Anniversary SHINE show, running through January 2025. It’s a work that invites contemplation, not just of its subject but of our shared human experiences”