24” x 18”, acrylic on wood, April 2021

I get nervous around new people. The walls are up. They’re cold and thick. I’m getting a heavily crafted version of someone. One way I like to break the ice is with a joke. It sets me at ease, but it also lets me see that glimpse of someone’s shine. Suddenly things aren’t so uncomfortable. ‘Cracked’ is a painting about seeing that glimpse of inner light, and breaking down those cold exteriors. Crack a joke or a smile at a someone new. See what happens.