Artist Statement:
Throughout the course of my life, I have had an evolving relationship with the Creator of Heaven and Earth. As with any relationship, it has its moments of ups and downs. The difference, between such a relationship and any other one experienced on Earth, is the fact that it is between ourselves and a Being whose existence is questioned everyday. Sometimes that leads to inner turmoil. Using myself as an example, I decided I wanted to explore and expose the bond I have shared with such a being.I began by rereading my journal entries and whenever I mentioned God, I took note of it. This body of work contains a few of those entries alongside an image that references the relationship by using light and darkness. Using light to represent the Lord, I tried to mimic the emotions felt. After all, we, as human beings, are the ones choosing to either sit in the dark or reside with the Light.
Innocence
"I have seen what the world can do to people when things go wrong, and I am determined to not let the world decide how I am going to be... I stand in awe over what the Lord has done for me. My strength comes from the Lord, because He gave me power to overcome all things." -T.H.
Happiness
"There are few moments, but they are there, where I feel at peace with everything consisting of my life. I love God, and I know that He is real. I definitely do not understand all that is going on in my life or why I have to experience it, but I trust the Lord and His Will."
Grief
"I'm not that strong... why was God doing this to us? To me? I've done everything He asked!! And here He takes so much away. My husband tells me not to blame God for this, that I need to pray and have faith. But my heart and head are overflowing nowadays with grief... I probably shouldn't blame God for this, but I cannot help but feel betrayed."
Anger
"What had I done to deserve something like this?! Had I not woken up for six am seminary every day? Had I not been a good enough friend to someone? Had I not been married in the temple? Had I not kept my covenants, prayed, fasted, and searched the scriptures? It just doesn't make sense, and somedays, I can't handle it. Why me? I truly can't believe God is making me go through this, I honestly am so bitter."
Plea
"I have been so angry lately that I have lost who I am. I suppose I identify myself as a follower of Christ, but my faith has been lacking. Oh God, help me... This burden I wish upon no one. I need my Savior, I need my Lord. He is the only one that can get me out of my dark hole."
I have a testimony of Jesus Christ and of the Restoration of His Gospel. I know that hard times are hard, but I know the Lord gave us the strength to bear them. If you have questions concerning your life and the hardships you face, I encourage you to pray and maybe search www.lds.org. I know I've found many different answers in different places, but those two seem to give me the most guidance.
