These two oil paintings are inspired by my enneagram which is the type two, known as “the servant” or “the helper.” While type Twos are known for our service to others, it can be easy for us to find our identity in helping others or devoting ourselves to a project. This can result in Twos feeling estranged from who we are and become reliant on others to determine our worth based on how much we are needed.

In light of this, I wanted to show the beauty that can come from a service minded person giving out of a place of personal integrity.

Just as we have to nourish and cultivate plants in a greenhouse, we also have to cultivate our identities outside of others.

Creating these pieces, I kept this concept in mind and made the process a fun, intuitive experience. Using the slick surface of primed wood panel to my advantage, I pushed the glossy oils around with my fingers. I created abstract shapes with visible brushstrokes through the buttery oils. Golden oil pastel adds pops of glimmer across the shiny paints.

Everything about this process felt true to myself and my personal aesthetic, and reminded me of the joy I find in my creative work.