A Fresh Perspective on a Delicate Matter

The documentary follows two main characters, a transgender woman and a transgender man, capturing their lives over a decade after their initial transition. The way they interact with their loved ones, the decisions they make, and the unspoken truths reveal a profound insight into human nature.

In one instance, a mother grapples with her daughter’s transition into a man and the secret her son’s girlfriend keeps from her conservative family. In another, the transgender woman’s ex-wife feels hurt by not being the first to know about her then-husband’s decision to transition.

And then it hit me. I get it!

The Duality of Truth and Betrayal

The closest people to you hold opinions that matter. When unsure about something that might upset them, you tell them. But when you’re convinced that something must be done, even if it goes against their beliefs, you withhold that truth.

To some, this might seem like betrayal. To others, it’s a matter of staying true to oneself. It’s never an easy decision, but a complicated dance between love, trust, self-discovery, and sometimes survival.

I’ve found myself on both sides of this equation, and it never feels easy either way. There’s a struggle between wanting support from those close to you and yet knowing you can’t tell them something that might hurt or alienate them.

A Personal Journey of Understanding

This is not about casting judgment or offering professional insights. I’m merely pondering and wondering, tracing my thoughts back to situations where I’ve been there, felt that. It’s about recognizing that life’s decisions are rarely black and white, and that understanding why someone might lie is not about excusing the act but about embracing empathy and compassion.

The beauty of life is that it allows us to grow, to change, to understand things in ways we never thought we could. And this documentary opened a door for me, showing me a new way of seeing and accepting a part of human nature that’s as complex as it is universal.

Have you ever been on either side of this equation? How did it feel? Share your thoughts, experiences, and let’s explore this intricate web of honesty together.

The Void: A Profound Connection

During a recent session, something extraordinary happened. As I settled into shavasana, the final resting pose, I felt a familiar resonance. The gentle, enveloping sound of Wanda’s sound bowl bath permeated the air, vibrating through my body and mind. It took me back to a sensation I had once experienced during my hourly guided meditations with Joe Dispenza.

There, guided by Joe’s soothing voice, I had felt myself being released into what appeared to be a void. It was a place beyond physicality, a vast expanse akin to the endless night sky with nothing in sight. In that void, I had learned to “let go,” a process of releasing both my past failures and successes. I found myself floating, enveloped by an abyss that was both freeing and profound. I felt like pure consciousness, like I just am.

A Yin Yoga Revelation

Back on the mat at Miami Life Center, these memories morphed into a powerful vision during shavasana. I suddenly experienced a sensation of an “ending” and felt myself being submerged by the earth. It was a humbling reminder of our transient nature and where we all eventually go at the end of this life.

But the sensation shifted, and the earth was no longer earth. It was the other side, a return to that void, that abyss. And it felt like coming home. This beautiful revelation filled me with warmth, joy, and a sense of contentment.

The Intersection of Yin Yoga and Consciousness

Yin yoga is more than just a physical practice. It’s a meditation, a deep connection with the self. The slow, deliberate movements and prolonged poses allow you to delve deeper into your body and mind, uncovering layers of emotion, memory, and thought.

My journey with yin yoga, particularly under Wanda’s expert guidance, has opened doors to explorations that go beyond the mat. It has led me to joyful discoveries, bordering on mystical experiences. Connecting these weekly sessions with my past meditations has enriched my practice and added a new dimension to my spiritual growth.

A Universal Experience

The mystical sensation I felt that day during shavasana is unique to me, yet I believe that it’s something others can connect with. We all have the ability to tap into our inner universe, to experience the pure essence of being.

If you’ve ever practiced yin yoga or any form of meditation that allowed you to transcend the mundane and touch the infinite, I’d love to hear your story. Maybe you too have felt that warm embrace of the abyss, that joyful connection with the void.

Let’s explore these mystical realms together. Let’s learn, grow, and embrace the unknown that resides within each one of us

Ready to elevate your meditation practice? Discover the tools that have shaped my personal journey towards inner peace and creativity. Click here to explore my specially curated collection of Yoga and Meditation Essentials, and take the first step towards a more mindful and artistic life. Your path to serenity awaits

As you embark on this mystical journey through the realms of yin yoga, guided meditation, and personal transformation, the resonance of our inner universe becomes ever more palpable. In the same vein of exploration and discovery, I invite you to delve into the “Soulscapes: Ethereal Journeys Through AI’s Eyes” and “Visionary Vastness: A Journey Through Form and Space“ collections.

These fine art prints, each a landscape of the soul, echo the profound truths and revelations one can experience through mindful practice. They are a voyage into a realm uncharted, where mountains pierce futuristic horizons, and imagination mingles with reality. Created with the synergy of human intuition and artificial intelligence, these images beckon you to transcend time, place, and understanding.

Inspired by life’s journey and the ever-shifting equilibrium of existence, this collection is more than mere visual representations. Let them guide you on a journey to your own inner universe, where dreams become reachable and real. Embrace the beautiful and raw landscapes of the soul, waiting to be explored, contemplated, and understood.

Explore and Purchase Prints from the “Soulscapes: Ethereal Journeys Through AI’s Eyes” Collection and “Visionary Vastness: A Journey Through Form and Space“ a celebration of the convergence of art, technology, and the boundless capacity to dream.

Let it be. Ride it. It’s going to be right. It’s going to become righted

Drawing inspiration from hyper-realistic portraits, I seek to portray the intricate details that make each individual unique, celebrating the complexities of human existence. With meticulous brushstrokes, I breathe life into captivating visages, inviting viewers to contemplate the depths of emotion and identity.

Within the realm of my art, mind-bending sculptures emerge, pushing the boundaries of perception and challenging conventional notions of form and reality. Through sculptural manifestations, I strive to unveil hidden truths and provoke contemplation, leaving the viewer in awe of the sheer possibilities that art can unveil.

Layered illusions form the fabric of my creative journey, allowing for multi-dimensional storytelling and exploration. With each layer, I create a dance between reality and imagination, inviting viewers to unravel the intricacies and discover new perspectives.

My art is a bridge between the known and the unknown, where the human body becomes a vessel for profound exploration and reimagining. It is a celebration of the beauty found in both accuracy and reinterpretation, where the surreal and the hyper-real coexist, inviting viewers to question their perception and embrace the wonder that lies within the enigmatic layers of artistic expression.

Join me on this artistic voyage as we unravel the mysteries of the anatomically correct woman, the captivating allure of hyper-realism, the mind-bending allure of sculptures, and the layered illusions that challenge our perception. Let us embark on a shared journey of introspection and inspiration, where art becomes a gateway to boundless possibilities and profound revelations.

Click on image to purchase prints

The concepts used in creating this art collection ( for artworks coming – subscribe for new additions) :

1. Neo-Romanticism: By embracing neo-romanticism in my art, I am drawn to its focus on emotional expression, introspection, and a longing for the sublime. It allows me to delve into complex human experiences and capture the beauty and intensity of emotions through my artistic expression.

2. Meticulous Fantasy: The meticulousness in my fantasy-inspired art indicates a desire to create intricately detailed and immersive worlds. It demonstrates my dedication to craftsmanship and invites viewers to explore the elaborate stories and characters you’ve envisioned.

3. Porcelain: Utilizing porcelain in my art symbolizes fragility, elegance, and delicacy. It represents the vulnerability of human nature and conveys a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era. The translucent qualities of porcelain also evoke a sense of ethereality and beauty.

4. Captivating Portraits: Portraits have the power to capture the essence of a person, conveying their emotions, personality, or even a glimpse into their inner world. By focusing on captivating portraits, I am exploring the human condition, highlighting the complexity and depth of individuals, and simply celebrating the beauty of unique faces.

5. Rococo Pastel Hues: The use of rococo pastel hues adds a soft and dreamlike quality to my art. It evokes a sense of whimsy, nostalgia, or romanticism. These hues transport viewers to a world of fantasy and enchantment, infusing my art with a gentle and captivating aesthetic.

6. Android Robot: Incorporating an android robot into my art suggests a fascination with the intersection of humanity and technology. It symbolizes the integration of artificial intelligence in our lives, raising questions about the future, human identity, and our relationship with machines.

7. Body Sculpture: Body sculpture as a concept in art explores the human form, its beauty, strength, vulnerability, andeven transformation. It allows for the exploration of anatomical accuracy, abstract interpretations, and the manipulation of bodies to convey specific messages or emotions.

8. Concept Art: Concept art serves as a visual exploration of ideas, often used in the development of movies, video games, or other creative projects. It helps to visualize and communicate concepts, environments, characters, or narratives, serving as a foundation for further artistic or storytelling endeavors.

9. Surreal Cyberpunk Iconography: Surreal cyberpunk iconography merges elements of surrealism and futuristic, dystopian themes. It captures the imagination with its juxtaposition of technology, urban landscapes, and unconventional elements. This combination evokes a sense of intrigue, social commentary, andportrays alternative realities.

10. Neon-Infused Digitalism: Neon-infused digitalism creates a visually striking aesthetic that blends the vibrant glow of neon lights with digital art techniques. It evokes a sense of energy, futurism, or a nostalgic nod to the aesthetics of the ’80s and ’90s. This style explores the intersection of technology, culture, and human experiences in the digital age.

Before the sun even shines, I’m already prepping my studio and my office. With a past in professional photography, my skillset proves invaluable as I set up to capture my artwork. The pieces are photographed with high-end equipment, ensuring every detail is discernible for potential fine art print collectors. These prints offer an opportunity for art enthusiasts to own a piece, especially if they are drawn to a larger representation of the work or if the original might be outside their budget.

But capturing the image isn’t just about the static visual. I often use neon uv light reactive paint and markers in my abstract gestural artworks. So, capturing the dynamism of the colors, the texture, and the unique glow is essential. Videos and images are taken to do justice to every nuance.

Once that’s accomplished, the creative process of naming the artwork begins. This is possibly my favorite step, as it encapsulates the essence of the piece. Following this, there’s the tedious yet vital task of creating an inventory number and recording the provenance. Details such as exhibitions the artwork has been part of, its storage location, and more are added. All this information is meticulously archived on my platform of choice artworkarchive.com . The system aids in streamlining the process, ensuring that no detail, however minute, is overlooked.

With the administrative work in place, I decide which artworks to list on various platforms like my personal shop and SaatchiArt ( use this link to get 15% off your first order). Decisions, decisions!

The day concludes with perhaps the most intimate act of an artist: signing the piece. It’s a personal stamp, an acknowledgment of creation.

Considering the work that goes into each piece, I’ve decided to elevate the prices of my original artworks. Rest assured, prints will remain at their current price. As I comb through my vast collection, cataloging and archiving, it’s evident that being an artist isn’t just a passion—it’s my full-time job.

In this journey, every bit of support counts. Whether you choose to bring a piece of my art into your life, follow my artistic journey, or simply share my posts, each gesture is deeply appreciated. Let’s continue to celebrate art, in all its forms.

The documentary provides a raw depiction of the lives of four black trans sex workers, emphasizing the dichotomy between the black community and themselves. The entire experience was riveting, and it took me on an emotional roller coaster. I felt intertwined with the stories of these incredible individuals, their struggles, and their resilience.

It’s intriguing to realize that sometimes, despite our differences, our emotions, experiences, and feelings echo similarly. As a white cis female, I surprisingly found a reflection of myself in the depths of the stories told by these black trans individuals. These revelations aren’t straightforward; they require introspection, empathy, and the ability to question our beliefs.

One book that had a profound impact on my understanding of unconscious biases is “Blindspot” by Mahzarin R Banaji and Anthony G Greenwald. The book doesn’t just delve into the academic aspect of biases but allows the readers to confront their own through intriguing online tests. As I dug deeper into the narrative, I realized that our biases don’t solely stem from our individual experiences, but largely from the environment and the actions we witnessed growing up. This revelation was pivotal for me. I understood how some of my past experiences had subconsciously formed biases that dictated my decisions for years.

Like many, I had experiences that created lasting impacts on my life. Early physical development, combined with traumatic experiences, led me to harbor a deep-seated bias, especially towards men. These biases influenced my personal and professional decisions, often hindering my growth.

D. Smith, through “Kokomo City,” masterfully used the black and white narrative, possibly hinting at the binary world we live in. The dichotomy of black and white, man and woman, this or that, raises an intriguing question about what lies beyond this binary? A question from the audience during the Q&A resonated with me – what happens when we move beyond these binaries to a world filled with colors, accepting the vast spectrum of human identities?

The very thought challenges the core of our identities. What happens when we no longer label ourselves based on race, gender, religion, or other binaries? How will we define our goals, our life purposes? It’s an exciting, yet challenging thought. Imagining a world where our identities aren’t pre-defined or limited, but rather fluid and expansive, offers hope for a future where empathy and understanding reign supreme.

“Kokomo City” was not just a documentary for me. It was a transformative experience that pushed me to question, empathize, and hope. I believe that the journey from bias to empathy is continuous, and such powerful narratives only propel us further along this path.

For those who’ve yet to witness this cinematic marvel, I urge you to watch “Kokomo City.” Additionally, if you’re keen on a profound introspective journey, “Blindspot” by Banaji and Greenwald is a must-read. Both these works are not only enlightening but essential in our collective journey towards understanding and empathy. Don’t wait; dive into these masterpieces today!

Read review of the book and see purchase link for the book here

This book doesn’t merely present an abstract discussion of unconscious biases. It bridges the gap between the theoretical and the practical by providing intriguing online tests for readers to discover their own ‘blind spots’. These tests are thought-provoking and highly beneficial, aiding individuals in understanding the foundations of their beliefs and actions.

The authors compellingly illustrate that our biases stem largely from the environment in which we were raised. More importantly, they emphasize that it’s not what was explicitly told to us but the actions witnessed during our upbringing that have the most significant impact. This perspective invites readers to engage in deeper introspection and understanding of their own and others’ behavior.

“Blindspot” may not provide a direct roadmap for changing these biases, but it gives a profound insight into why they exist, challenging readers to reevaluate their perceptions. This is a seminal work for anyone interested in understanding the roots of bias and taking the first steps towards self-improvement and empathetic understanding of others.

Buy Book HERE

Imagine a woman – resplendent in hues of delicate pink or pristine off-white – standing as the personification of fashion editorial imagery, a symbol of elegance and grace. Yet, as your eyes trace her silhouette, they are led to a burst of vibrant abstract artistry. This isn’t merely a background; it’s a universe. A realm where sartorial sophistication intertwines seamlessly with chaotic brush strokes. These artworks, echoing light orange, dark gray, black, and bronze tones, draw inspiration from the yombe art’s pulsating essence and the unmistakable touch of the Zaire school of popular painting.

Interestingly, the latter bears semblance to my own artistic journey. Much like the self-taught maestros of the Zaire art movement, who seamlessly moved between the realms of poster painting, street art, and advertising, my work also pulsates with a raw, uninhibited energy. It thrives on disengaging with mainstream paradigms and delves deep into the abstract caverns of self-expression.

One can’t help but observe the hints of dynamic action painting, the dramatic play of light, and the monumental ensemble that these images conjure. Each artwork feels like a canvas where the spirits of artists like Serge Attukwei Clottey, Meryl McMaster, Joan Miró, and Helen Frankenthaler convene, leaving whispers of their legendary touch.

Yet, the journey does not end here. As I find myself at this exciting midjourney, I am eager to see where this fusion of fashion editorial and abstract artistry leads me next. Will it blossom into more dramatic abstract paintings, evolve into intricate installation art, or perhaps pave the way for avant-garde sartorial pursuits?

Amidst this symphony of artistic exploration, my overarching mission remains unwavering: To empower self-discovery and limitless creativity, inspiring each of you to delve into the depths of your imagination and bring forth your unique narrative. As you immerse yourself in this union of abstract and sartorial art, may you find the courage to embrace life’s mysteries, connect with the beautiful tapestry of global diversity, and leave your indelible mark on the world’s artistic landscape.

Come, join me in this dance of colors, textures, and stories. Let’s embark on a journey that celebrates the boundless spectrum of human creativity. Whether you’re an art connoisseur or someone yearning to explore, there’s a world here waiting to be discovered, painted with hues of passion and punctuated with moments of childlike wonder

To purchase painting please visit online shop HERE

A Life Unfolding: Gloria Vanderbilt’s Unusual Journey

Gloria’s life was long, privileged, and filled with old-world aristocratic coldness. Her existence, cushioned by wealth yet alienated from the majority, fascinated me, as did the religious dogmas that shaped her public image. She was called the “Vanderbilt child” in the press, an impersonal way to reference a living, breathing individual. The melancholy of her story was underscored by her relationships, her need for protection, and her restlessness to propel herself forward.

A Painter’s Reflection: My Connection to Gloria

As I dove into Gloria’s world, I couldn’t help but see reflections of my own life. I, too, have felt the drama and the pull of an unusual existence, without the Vanderbilt wealth. I have longed for normalcy while recognizing that my drive for more would never allow it. Like Gloria, I have been drawn to the arts, bypassing myself opportunities in acting, to find my mark in painting.

Our experiences with motherhood and inheritance ( or lack there of in my case ) also mirrored each other. Gloria’s decision to cut her mother off from her inheritance, telling her to “get a job,” echoed the words my daughter spoke to me during hard times. Both of us worked hard, driven by love and responsibility, striving to provide for those we cared about and find ourselves in the process.

The Artistic Soul: Loneliness and Connection

Perhaps the most powerful link between Gloria and myself lies in the internal loneliness that seems to fuel our artistic expression. Gloria’s lack of a concrete life plan, her struggles with identity, and her desire to connect through her art mirror my own feelings. This deep-seated, isolating sense of loneliness has become a driving force behind my work, propelling me forward through tragedy and restlessness.

Gloria’s inventiveness, her journey through love and loss, and her ability to continue living despite unbearable heartache resonates with me. Her life story, entwined with art and tragedy, is a poignant reminder of human resilience.

Conclusion: A Shared Journey

The documentary “Nothing Left Unsaid” offered me a glimpse into a life both foreign and familiar. Gloria’s childlike art, her relationships, her restless drive, and her intense longing for connection mirror aspects of my own life. As an artist, a mother, and a woman who has experienced the unpredictable tides of life, I see in Gloria a kindred spirit.

Her story inspires me to embrace the unpredictability of life, to find strength in love, and to express it all through my art. It serves as a reminder to tell those in my life that they are loved and supported, and to share that love more widely through my paintings.

This is more than a review of a documentary; it’s an exploration of the human soul, an intertwining of two lives connected by art, love, and a drive to understand and be understood.

Amusing and Delightful Connections

Many have described the show as “amusing and delightful,” and I wholeheartedly agree. Watching the show is like participating in a human puzzle, where connections are drawn, and bonds are made or broken. It’s almost a game to guess which date will make it to the second round. You can just tell by body language, the way they converse, the spark in their eyes – these subtle clues guide the audience in predicting the outcome.

More Than Just a Show, A Personal Reflection

For me, “Dating Around” goes beyond mere entertainment. It has caused me to pause and reflect on my own life and relationships. Each interaction on the show serves as a reminder that connections aren’t merely coincidences but serendipitous moments that shape our lives. The show nudged me into rethinking past regrets about time spent with the people who once graced my life. Perhaps, they were not mistakes but beautiful chapters that were meant to be.

A Fresh Approach to Reality Television

What sets “Dating Around” apart from other reality shows is its authenticity. There are no confessionals, no voice-overs narrating the scenes, no heavy-handed production interference. It’s just a raw, honest peek into people’s interactions, which invites viewers to think and see for themselves.

It’s akin to French cinema, notorious for providing glimpses into lives without definite beginnings or endings – movies that I love. This unique presentation style allows us to connect with the experiences on screen, form our opinions, and perhaps even see a bit of ourselves in these fleeting connections.

Conclusion: A Connection Worth Making

“Dating Around” is more than a reality show; it’s an exploration of human connection, a celebration of authenticity, and a chance to reflect on life’s serendipities. Its unscripted nature and lack of narration allow the viewer to engage with the content more intimately, making it a stand-out piece in the world of reality TV.

If you are in search of something different, something that invites you to think, to connect, and to appreciate the beautiful complexity of human interaction, then “Dating Around” might be your next perfect match on Netflix.

In “Mad Men,” the advertising genius Don Draper, known for his sharp wit and creative prowess, had an affinity for abstract art. This wasn’t just a matter of aesthetic appeal; it was a subtle indication of his intellectual depth and innovative thinking. Similarly, in the groundbreaking series “Succession,” the billionaire Roy family’s home is adorned with abstract artwork, underscoring their wealth, status, and a keen eye for value beyond the material realm.

But why is it that characters like these are typically associated with abstract art? The connection might be more profound than you think.

The intrinsic beauty of abstract art lies in its openness to interpretation. Unlike other art forms, it doesn’t tell a defined, coherent story. It leaves room for imagination, allowing the viewer to dive deep into their mind and extract a meaning that resonates with them. Hence, it’s often the intellectuals, the creatives, the mavericks, who are drawn to these enigmatic pieces, their minds capable of appreciating and deciphering the layers within the abstract.

Moreover, the appreciation of abstract art requires a certain degree of cultural and artistic knowledge, often associated with a higher level of education or social status. To put it simply, buying abstract art isn’t just a matter of taste, but a show of cultural capital.

Let’s not forget the significant role of abstract art as a symbol of financial power. With famous pieces by artists like Jackson Pollock or Mark Rothko selling for millions, owning a piece of abstract art has become a status symbol—a sign of affluence. However, it’s not just about the price tag. It’s about the willingness to invest in something intangible and profound, something that holds its value in sentiment and cultural significance rather than in dollars and cents.

However, this doesn’t mean that abstract art is only for the elite. The beauty of it lies in its universality. You don’t need to have a six-figure salary or a degree in Art History to enjoy abstract art. All you need is a mindset open to exploration and the ability to appreciate the mystery and beauty of the abstract.

So the next time you see an abstract painting in a movie or on TV, remember that it’s not just a prop—it’s a statement about the character who owns it. And if you’re considering buying an abstract piece for your own home, know that you’re not just buying a piece of art—you’re purchasing a symbol of your intellectual curiosity, your appreciation for the abstract, and your individuality. Abstract art is not just about breaking patterns in the artistic world; it’s about challenging norms and conventions in the real world. It’s a badge of sophistication, intellect, and power—a testament to the complexity of the human mind.