I am inspired by human rights cases; specifically involving freedom of expression and individuals at risk. I want to help tell their stories. I also want to find a way to share the stories of the released and survivors of human rights topics. I have met a few former Prisoners of Conscience and their stories are so powerful and motivating. Hearing their stories confirms that working on these cases can have positive results; working with Amnesty International can change what is happening to these people.
One of the most inspiring and motivating experiences I have had was attending the 2010 Amnesty International Northeast Regional Conference. On this day I found out Aung San Suu Kyi had been released from house arrest in Burma. I also meet Tissa, a recently released Prisoner of Conscience and Sri Lankan journalist. These are two cases I spent a lot of time with, both in my art and with Amnesty actions. I drew a portrait of Aung San Suu Kyi with quotes from her speeches. The text over her face was to help teach the viewer about who she is and what she works for in Burma. I also made work representing Tissa’s case. This piece was two paintings that contrasted forms of expression in Sri Lankan and the US. One painting shows Tissa behind bars in detention. The other is of several activists holding posters. This side was inspired by photos I took on a previous Get on the Bus for Human Rights event that I participated with in New York City.
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