The theme Give to Gain is often presented as a simple equation.
Women give; love, labour, beauty, softness, patience - and are told that what they gain is purpose, worth, admiration.

“What It Costs To Bloom” questions that exchange.

 

Through chaotic digital collages layered with glitter, magazine fragments, and confrontational text, these 5 pieces explore the exhaustion, rage, performance, and resilience that come with womanhood. They sit in the uncomfortable space between nostalgia and rebellion; the girlhood we were sold and the womanhood we inherited.

 

These works are personal. They hold anger. They hold tenderness. They hold pride.

 

To give is not always gentle.
To gain is not always reward.

 

Sometimes what we gain is awareness.
Sometimes we gain teeth.
Sometimes we gain ourselves.