It takes a lot of energy to create my self-portraiture. As I mend my health, my spirit returns. And so does my art.
This is hard-fought radical change from within. It is also soft-fought, to let go and accept change with breath and vulnerability. I am giving my body what it requires to thrive and find peace, and discontinuing treatments that cause harm and chaos. Specifically, getting off of 6 prescribed medications that were completely wrong for me and wrecking havoc on my inner and external worlds. I am learning so much. And I am -finally-listening to myself the most.
I photographed my first Kambo ceremony because, as a self-portrait artist, it's how I connect to myself, my feelings and growth. I knew this would be life changing for me. My guide in healing, Brandi-a registered nurse and herbalist, began the ceremony with Hape, then Sananga and a deep meditation. Brandi then placed the 3 Kambo gates on my right shoulder. The experience wasn't as uncomfortable as I had expected. Having suffered from many horrific migraines, this wasn't anywhere near that-a very pleasant surprise. The gates are left on for 20 minutes. Once removed, I rested for awhile and broke my fast with delicious fruit and a chat with Miss Melon (Brandi's doggy).
Please note, this is just a journal of my own personal experiences. It is not meant to serve as medical advice in any way.
A week later, I went back for my second Kambo treatment. This time, Brandi placed four Kambo gates on the sacral and root chakras. It's a long road to healing ahead, but I am moving forward with hope, strength like never before, daily integration work, and much more creating. The effects of the additional gate, as well as the placement of them, made for a more intense experience. I can't explain the level of clarity and peace you have afterwards. It is so far beyond words.
Here is a photo of the gates following the second ceremony.
I am a self-portrait artist living in the Sonoran desert. I seamlessly blend my internal landscapes into evocative photography, in a style I coined and call “moodoir.” My self-portraits are a canvas for sensuality, playfulness, heartache, and the many emotions in between. Through nearly a decade of artistic evolution, my process of creation has been a way for me to find myself and connect with the world around me. In many ways, I have photographed myself into existence.
Exploring the interplay of light's stark contrasts, geometric shapes, and the magic of long exposures, my work breathes life into moments, emphasizing energy, ephemerality, and raw emotion. May my creations inspire you to delve into your own emotions, forging a connection to the shared human experience. Welcome to the world I've woven through my lens.
I have been published with National Geographic Your Shot four times, and was their artist of the week. My work has been featured with Samsung, Childsplay AZ, Lensbaby, Contagion Media, and Fashion France. I am also a contributing artist with premium and international stock photography companies. My art has been displayed at the Arizona State Capitol Museum Herberger Theater, as well as The {9} Gallery, and Sisao Gallery in Phoenix, Arizona.