2024 – Naturalization
Fluid Identity and Spiritual Belonging
I’ve worn many jerseys—Brazilian, Canadian, Hawaiian, American—each slipped on, then off. Identity is fluid. In the year I became a U.S. citizen, I infused sculptural paintings with materials from places I explored. Guided by Ram Dass, Joseph Campbell, and Alan Watts, painting became my compass for meditation and divine connection. Mandalas, moons, butterflies, gold, prayer beads, chakras, Kintsugi—these symbols weave spiritual transformation. Citizenship is clothing I wear, never what defines me. We are continual becoming.
I’ve worn many jerseys—Brazilian, Canadian, Hawaiian, American—each slipped on, then off. Identity is fluid. In the year I became a U.S. citizen, I infused sculptural paintings with materials from places I explored. Guided by Ram Dass, Joseph Campbell, and Alan Watts, painting became my compass for meditation and divine connection. Mandalas, moons, butterflies, gold, prayer beads, chakras, Kintsugi—these symbols weave spiritual transformation. Citizenship is clothing I wear, never what defines me. We are continual becoming.