Right now, I am in a time of my life where uncertainty follows me wherever I go. I'm uncomfortable with the unknown and fight against it in any way I can. Art is the dam in the river that leaves me wading in unknown terrain, even though sometimes I have difficulty finding my footing. I decided that my central theme should reflect who I am—someone who likes being in a comfort zone—and where I am in my life right now: searching for meaning, for oneself, and for adventure. Darian Volkova's photography inspired me to show more than what we see on the surface through my art. I thought through the hidden details to symbolize adversities and triumphs that arise out of searching. Each of my pieces is titled a different verb, as I am a firm believer in the power of taking action when making what is unknown, known. The verbs begin with the actions necessary for the journey—thinking, dreaming, and creating—and conclude with trusting the universe and traveling in order to see the world in a greater context. In my exhibition, I chose to display my artwork in an enclave; the overall composition was a sanctuary wherein the onlooker must enter a symmetrical darkened space filled with lights, flowers, and tulle. The latter aspects were meant to emphasize people's tendency to portray themselves in a certain way to others on the outside while hiding their struggles within. The ethereal decor mimics ballet, while the juxtaposition of the contrasting black fabric enclosing the space shows the unknown and the difficulties one silently faces while on the quest to find who they are. The black emphasizes the bright color of the artwork, and the whole composition is harmonious in its range of value and textures. Preparing for the show was challenging because it was an entirely new experience, but the skills of patience, cooperation, and artistic decision-making are invaluable. My artwork and exhibition were attempts at connecting with the audience on a basis of familiarity; I wanted them to see a bit of themselves in my work and reflect on where THEY are in their lives right now: in the unknown or known, searching or finding. Many of the audience members became more aware of the benefits of accepting uncertainty and realizing the beauty within the undiscovered.