Artist Statement

All of the illustrations contained within this series were created, from start to finish, using a Bic ballpoint pen. No other media was implemented on any image in order to smudge, blur or blend an effect. Every gradation, from the deepest black to the softest grey; every texture, from the smoothest stone to the wildest fur, emerged from the tip of a Bic ballpoint pen.

I neither expected nor intended for anyone to ever see these illustrations. They were simply a way to process the personal thoughts that haunted me during my formative years as an artist. This series contains a glimpse of the writing and imagery implemented to understand myself as well as what I wanted with my life.

In the end, the culmination of this work provided an answer to my questioning- in that there is “no such thing” as a mistake. The illustrations which seemingly began as unavoidable failures, managed to transform into the greatest successes- provided that I stay the course and take responsibility for the decisions I had made on paper. 

Personal Statement

While building the universe of Liminal Creatures, long hours of drawing allowed my subconscious to slowly reveal pieces of suppressed memories from early childhood trauma. For many years I failed to understand the meaning behind much of the symbology in this series, but through the intervention of EMDR Treatment and other therapies, I realized these images provided brief glimpses into the truth of my past. 

After extensive rehabilitation and research, I understood how my physiological brain had implemented Dissociative Amnesia in order to hide the traumatic memories that jeopardized my survival. However, my extensive collection of drawings compiled over the years revealed a catalog of abuse documenting the trauma my consciousness had suppressed. 

Despite the severity of what I experienced; my mind tirelessly forged a path to reveal the truth. By appropriating elements of these horrific experiences and weaving them into a complex lattice of creatures composed of fantasy, fable, and fairytale, I was given the irrefutable evidence I needed to believe the truth of my childhood.

Our brains are designed to ensure our survival as well as heal from the atrocities we may endure. If one can find the strength to place faith in their own ability to overcome trauma, then the body, the mind, and the spirit will deliver rehabilitation at a pace that is most appropriate for the person seeking to repair what has been damaged.

Thank You

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about my story and the origins of Liminal Creatures. Your love and support allow me to continue expanding upon the artwork that not only revealed the truth of my life, but dually saved my life. In time, I intend to finish and share the stories that belong to these guardians who ushered me through the darkest periods of my life, with the hope that they may usher you through the darkness in yours towards the light.