The Paradox of Vulnerability | (2019) 33" x 44"

(2019) 33" x 44"   Ink and watercolor illustration on cold press watercolor paper with paint marker highlights. Float mounted in a custom cut maple frame set behind museum quality clear acrylic. Story  Funny thing, vulnerability. To be vulnerable literally means exposed to danger, and we learn to avoid this state as a means of survival. Yet we also require vulnerability as a means to connect interpersonally. As a society we are experiencing a generational changing of the guard, as vulnerability and access to one’s feelings are increasingly seen as strengths; repressed feelings can cause a lack of emotional well being as well as mental and physical illness. What a conundrum: this concept that protects us, can kill us. Snow leopards - a protected species - are capable killers who stalk their prey in silence as they prowl on the insteps of their feet. The snow leopard symbolizes trusting one’s own instincts and preparing for a major turning point in life. The stunningly beautiful