"2-Step Closer"

"2-Step Closer"

Monari, Mackenzie

This piece – a mixed media assemblage painting – is one of my most playful ones. In it, I represent a memory of me carrying my half-brother, Layne, who is 16 years younger than me. Going through my photos I found a picture of him wearing a onesie – my favorite one he had – featuring the words “heavy metal” and a cute little robot. The combination of that innocence and the implied danger of the scene is key to this image. As graduation approaches, I am beginning to fear for my safety again because I don’t want to return to an abusive environment. Education has always been a safe home for me. Although I am afraid for myself, I am even more worried for my little brother’s safety because he is in my father’s care. In the work I combine these deep concerns with my carefree nightlife – music, make-up, friends. When I am dancing all my fears disappear and I just focus on listening and feeling. Allowing these realms to merge in my work is cathartic and a way to let others in to witness the complexities of my experience.

2026