[artist's statement]
 
UNDEVELOPED 

The shown pieces are 32 in. wide by 40 in. tall with the smallest cuts being only 1/2 in. x 1/2 in.  The colors are all achieved through exposing photographic, cyanotype chemicals, coated on watercolor paper, to the sun over various periods of time.  Prior to coating, some of the chemicals are mixed with water color pigment to enhance the transformation that occurs outside.  Each piece is then meticulously cut and adhered to the hand-cut mat board.  Several of the colors were not developed, as is the normal process of submerging them in running water, though this is only one side of the series' title's meaning. 
 
As an artist, many of the lessons I've learned came with time and experience.  Making the transition to becoming a full-time artist is difficult at best with the wind almost always against you.  But, through hard work and determination we can overcome most obstacles as we develop ourselves into who we are supposed to be.  It is those issues that are beyond our control that diminishes hope and without hope there is no hope.  As I continue to witness first hand the difficulties in dealing with mental illness, I am constantly surprised at the courage it takes to continue developing a life that so many of us take for granted.  These prints represent an optimism that is recorded in the daily patience needed to continue on in search of developing into a normal life free of constraining mental shackles.