What Lies Within

Survivor of Hurricane Helene.

In this provocative creation "What Lies Within," a vintage female mannequin becomes a canvas of vibrancy. Clad in a skintight, kaleidoscopic “jumpsuit”, she emanates a burst of color that transcends conventional boundaries. The intentional openness of her “suit” unveils flames with expressive strokes, symbolizing an inner vitality, passion, and the fiery complexities concealed beneath the surface. This piece explores the correlation between the external allure of vivid hues and the internal inferno, inviting viewers to ponder the layers of identity hidden within. "What Lies Within" is a visual dialogue that celebrates the multifaceted nature of the feminine spirit, encouraging contemplation on the dynamic interplay between the seen and the unseen, the revealed and the concealed.

She was created from a vintage IDW (Lithuania) mannequin and stands 71" tall. I had digitally created photographs of River Arts District graffiti printed on large pieces of fabric. I then cut the fabric into small strips which I applied to her in overlapping and herringbone patterns.

These are before and after photos of "What Lies Within". 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.

"What Lies Within" 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.