As with most of the subjects of my work, my inspiration came from my own experiences. These figures came to me one day at a museum where everyone was walking around with the tour-guide handsets up to their ears. I kept getting annoyed at their greediness and their being oblivious that they were blocking my and others’ view. I quickly sketched an oversized person superimposed over a tiny picture frame. It then occurred to me that while I was sketching, I myself was doing the same to those behind me. At that time, I turned my thoughts inward and decided to explore my own consumption and my own oblivion to how it affects those around me. While there are layers of meaning for different viewers because of the figures’ intentional simplicity and iconic forms, for me they are driven by a specific internal conversation. The themes of overconsumption and indulgence often result in guilt – but in my exploration I realized that despite guilt or consequence, one continues to consume because it is pleasurable. It is with this contradiction in mind that I created these figures that represent overindulgence through their girth, while presenting an overall feeling of blissful enjoyment through their buoyancy. They are meant to be humorous, weightless and carefree, even while contemplating the heavier stuff of life. I have intentionally edited out anything sinister or dark, allowing the viewer to bring their own judgment, whether they see the figures as morbid or jolly, either way they are correct. In a way, these figures have become my active, but neutral conscience. Currently, I am developing these characters into new compositions whose scope continues the aforementioned themes, but extend beyond me and into society at large. Stylistically, I have drawn inspiration from a range of time and influences: from the Venus of Willendorf of antiquity, to the modern sculpture of Gaston Lachaise. I am interested in the simplicity of design and exaggeration of form as a way to streamline my intentions, but also to simultaneously allow the viewer to make their own interpretation. It is my sincere hope that, above all, the humor is seen and felt in my work. So please, feel free to laugh and giggle, I can’t imagine a better compliment. As for me, these figures have become my ambassadors.