PRINTS

Building upon my previous work, this piece continues the exploration of representing important people in my life through the symbolism of birds, drawing once again from the medieval bestiary. In my research I came across two new types of birds: the Titmouse and the Martineta. The Titmouse is described as “a bird that is curious about other birds”, one that can only be captured when a hunter lays a trap, showing the Titmouse a dead bird to draw it in. The Martineta on the other hand is a bird that does not decay when it dies. Together, these birds became metaphors for the relationships I have with my close friends at NYU, representing the tension between connection and the fear of alienation. This piece is a reflection of my insecurities within a group dynamic. Before coming to NYU, I struggled with a sense of belonging, unable to envision a scenario where a larger group would care enough to welcome me into friendship. Yet, despite the newfound connections, I continue to feel as though I am already somehow absent—destined to slip away unnoticed. In creating this work, I sought to convey that sense of emotional distance and the lingering fear of impermanence, encapsulating both my vulnerability and the complexities of belonging in a community.