The Guardian

Survivor of Hurricane Helene.

In this evocative figurative sculpture, a vintage female mannequin emerges as a silent sentinel draped in a black cowl, reminiscent of ancient mourning attire, and crowned with a hooded head covering. Two enigmatic faces peer forth from the piece, presenting a dual visage navigating the realms of the living and the spectral. The white face, mirroring the timeless elegance of vintage cemetery statuary, imparts an otherworldly quality to this guardian figure. "The Guardian" stands as a solemn tribute, inviting viewers to reflect on the mysterious role of sentinels and the delicate balance between the mortal and the immortal in our existence.

This piece was inspired by my love of gothic cemetery statuary. 

These are before and after photos of "The Guardian". The "before" pics were taken before Hurricane Helene. The "after" pics were taken after Helene did her work.

As most of you know, Hurricane Helene destroyed roughly 80% of the River Arts District. My work (Ahdra Art) was displayed and for sale at Foundation Studios. The flooding at Foundation Studios was to the ceiling rafters and the building destroyed.

I was fortunate that all but one of my assemblage sculptures were recovered. They are currently home with me and I am making attempts to clean off the mud and empty them of flood water. I have little inventory; all my photo art prints, notecards, stickers, canvas prints, etc. were lost or destroyed.

"The Guardian" is currently in my home studio. If you would like to purchase this piece please contact me.

This was never supposed to happen here in the mountains yet it did and we must begin again.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, my work has taken on a new layer of meaning, shaped by the loss and transformation this powerful force left in its wake. Many of my artworks were lost or irreparably damaged during the storm—vintage mannequin assemblage sculptures and prints representing months of creation and contemplation. Yet, this experience has only deepened my commitment to exploring resilience, identity, and the beauty found in imperfection.

For those interested in supporting my work and vision, I encourage you to visit my digital photo art prints under Digital Art.