Whale Song

2023 had me lost at sea.

I found myself in a perfect storm of loneliness, and this time, there was no escape. At first, I fought against its waves, but soon, I surrendered to the depths. In this silence, I discovered a profound self-awareness and love that became the catalyst for this exhibit. In the sanctuary of my studio, my emotions surfaced through the energy of brush strokes, teal splashes, and an underwater ballet of whales.

While diving in the open ocean last year, I was surrounded by the songs of whales in the distance. Immersed in their frequencies, I felt my own cells vibrating, healing, changing.

Encountering a humpback whale is both humbling and awe-inspiring. In Native American and Māori cultures, they are considered supernatural guardians, bringing messages of resilience and wisdom. The symbology of the humpback has inspired the themes of divinity, connection, and protection in my work.

Studies have revealed that the part of the brain that processes emotions appears more complex in humpback whales than in humans, suggesting a greater capacity for empathy. Humpbacks form life-long connections with their offspring, family, and friends — navigating vast distances to reunite annually — despite spending the majority of their lives in solitude. During my research into these behaviors, I thought to myself, maybe this reflects my own journey back home.

Their deeply emotive songs travel across whole oceans, resonating like music across human cultures. The idea that entire whale populations share a common melody led me to discover that true connection may come from finding those who have heard the same song- the ones that harmonize with me.

In the symphony of this whale song, my hope is that we find ourselves immersed in a melody that reminds us of the peace, power, and wisdom within ourselves.