As an artist deeply connected to both history and the present, I find myself drawn to the figures who played pivotal roles in shaping democracy, such as Benjamin Franklin. My digital painting of Franklin serves as both a homage and a reminder of the enduring principles that underpin American democracy.

In the current moment, where democracy is under siege globally, I use my art to bridge the past with the present, invoking the wisdom and foresight of the founding figures while critiquing and reflecting on the state of contemporary society. Through this work, I aim to participate in democratic discourse by encouraging viewers to reflect on the values of liberty, equity, and civic responsibility.

In a time where artistic censorship is increasingly prevalent, I do sometimes worry about the boundaries placed on creative expression. However, I see these challenges as a call to amplify my voice, using art as a medium to push back against those constraints and advocate for a more inclusive and equitable society. My work consciously engages with themes of diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion, striving to contribute to the ongoing battle for these ideals within our democracy.

Through my art, I hope to honor the legacy of those who have fought for these principles while also questioning and critiquing the ways in which they are being upheld—or undermined—today.