05/16/2026
“Holding Liberty” began with a conversation.
While brainstorming ideas for the Salem Arts Association’s themed exhibition, “American Dream,” I began exploring concepts with ChatGPT. One image that emerged was the Statue of Liberty seated in quiet distress, her face buried in her hands. That image stayed with me.
From there, I developed the concept further, constructing and compositing my own reference imagery before rendering the final artwork by hand in Corel Painter using a digital brush and painting software. The finished piece was printed on canvas with archival pigmented inks and hand-finished with layers of cold wax to create surface texture and depth.
AI was part of the conceptual process, but it was only one tool among many. The painting itself was shaped through composing, digital painting, editing, printing, and physical surface work.
I’m honored to have “Holding Liberty” included in the “American Dream” exhibition at the Salem Arts Association Gallery at 88 Wharf Street on Pickering Wharf in Salem, MA (next to Finz Restaurant).
The exhibition is open Fridays through Sundays through June 13. Hours 12-6pm.
This piece is my own reflection on the fragility, resilience, and weight of the ideals we hold as Americans.
🗽
