Artist Statement

My greatest success to date is the creation of The Deck of Character, an art object that sparks meaningful conversation around the globe. The DOC is a playful oracle card experience that has been updated to appeal to the modern user and feel game-like. Players ask the deck life questions like “Is love real?” and “What happens after we die?” Then randomly selected poker-sized playing cards from the deck’s universe of 111 minimalist cartoon symbols answer participant questions. With card combinations like Angsty Teen, Broken Heart, and Dumpster, or Grim Reaper, Flower, and Graveyard, The DOC’s relatable collection makes the experience less about fortune telling and more about collectively contemplating the human condition.

Like Marina Abramović’s The Artist is Present, I occupied art spaces across the US and in Europe solo, talking with people to spread The DOC. My time and energy, sitting with people and sharing my presence, is just as much part of the artwork as anything physical. 

As an artist, I am interested in bringing objects to the world that ignite people’s sense of purpose and set the soul free. My vision is uniquely American: to express ourselves is a fundamental human right. And every time we have a chance to connect with ourselves and each other is a chance to make our reality a better place. Every part of my process matters: from the accessible design of the artwork to the commonplace materials it is made of and its affordability for the average citizen to collect it.

To live fully, we must build a world together where all people are free.