This piece explores the idea of putting your own oxygen mask first, with women being the literal vessel and caretakers of the whole world. Pondering the concept of space between depletion and completion – never quite feeling ‘enough’ in the between.

An orb is seen floating above a chalice. Empty or full? If empty, can it be filled? Does it need to be so full? We know it can’t be empty, that’s not good. The black surround (gloss) represents the idea of exterior. The world? Society? The chalice (her) and the orb (them/those we aim to please). The dance of expectation. These left intentionally flat, incomplete and jarring.

The fluidity in this work challenged the artist. White space remaining, underpainting visible (vulnerable). Choosing to sit with the discomfort, and accept it anyway. Maybe this is growth? Reaching for acceptance of ‘what is?’

Who put these narratives there anyway? Maybe them? But who leaves it there, festering? We do, with the stories we tell ourselves in the dark.