Pocket Kites for Anxiety
now on view at Harwood Art Center in Embodiments of Wonder through 4/13/2024
Pocket Kites for Anxiety Statement
For the past few years, I have been experiencing high levels of anxiety triggered by the intense wind in Albuquerque. My therapist suggested finding positive associations with wind. I realized that I have been making videos of kites flying in the air, enamored by their lyrical movement against the blue sky, for years. I was inspired to get a kite which in turn led to making kites. Flying kites changed my perception of wind, I now not only look forward to windy days I watch the forecast in anticipation.
Through kites made of various materials, I confront the anxiety that prevents me from sleeping at night or leaving the house. The prismatic kite refracts light and casts rainbows as the sunlight hits it. The sky kite is painted to match the color of the sky that day and flies in and out of visibility. Direct light bounces off of the grey surface of the reflective kite and it appears bright white. These are pocket-sized sled kites, their portability makes them ready for flight at a moment's notice. Pocket Kites for Anxiety are tools for resiliency and hope in the face of climate change caused by capitalism and settler colonialism.
Through kites made of various materials, I confront the anxiety that prevents me from sleeping at night or leaving the house. The prismatic kite refracts light and casts rainbows as the sunlight hits it. The sky kite is painted to match the color of the sky that day and flies in and out of visibility. Direct light bounces off of the grey surface of the reflective kite and it appears bright white. These are pocket-sized sled kites, their portability makes them ready for flight at a moment's notice. Pocket Kites for Anxiety are tools for resiliency and hope in the face of climate change caused by capitalism and settler colonialism.