This year I have allowed my art process to look a little different; instead of coming up with a concept and a clearer idea of what I want to create before beginning, I have let the process of creating and experimenting be what inspires me and guides the direction of the art. In this collection, especially, the creating process was what inspired the concept. Creating these pieces took several steps: brainstorming, drawing, cutting, carving, drilling, sanding, painting, varnishing, embroidering. Some of these steps even had substeps within them. The healing process and the art process can be metaphors for each other. Healing is also a multi-step process that can take a long time and demands a lot of energy. Whether you are healing physically, emotionally, relationally, spiritually, etc., you will most likely have to patiently endure uncomfortable, painful, and even risky or awkward moments. Completing this work took a lot of sweaty summer afternoons in the shop cutting wood with dangerous tools that I was still learning to use. I spent late nights and early mornings experimenting with paint colors and materials I had never used before. Sometimes I felt like I had no idea where I was going. By the end, I was exhausted. Healing is exhausting. Still, I knew this hard work was not in vain. It was good work. The healing process is good work. The outcome is feeling lighter, more vibrant, more ourselves. Because of the process the outcome is even more worthy, and I believe this reflects the incredible way God uses and transforms anything and anyone into something more beautiful.