Predation is the theme for my solo exhibition this year that comment of human predatory behaviors through big cats actions. This piece specifically talks about the state of panic caused by unfounded fear. This is portrayed through the goldfishes swimming to the top of the bowl, 'escaping’ the perceived danger, symbolized through the tigers that are actually patterns on the tabletop. I wanted to comment on attacks towards civilians all around the world based on prejudice and misinformation especially police brutality on African American community, attacks on innocent Muslims, and recent bombing and stabbing by terrorist in the U.K.

My son Ivànovic spent 8 months of his 10 months and 24 days of life inside the hospital mostly unable to move more than a metre from oxygen connected to the wall or some sort of breathing support. On this day just days after we spoke with palliative care and just days before he passed away, I took him outside so the sun could kiss his face there we were connected, connected to the community that we had looked at through his hospital room window. It would be his last walk

Dying is the ultimate solitary affair. No one else can do it for you. The human connections made during a life journey provide meaning and substance, but essentially one travels on alone. The wall shrine I have created with its recessed space is symbolic of the absence felt by a community of friends, family and significant others when one has departed this human form. The shell represents the eternal inner essence when the wave of life has broken on the shoreline. Memorials are places where individuals and communities can reflect, be united in grief or celebrate a life well lived.

My mother's retirement village has a family lunch every month - and this lovely Croatian lady, Maria, always sits alone, facing the wall. I asked the staff if she'd join us but they said the window light is too bright and she prefers this table. She says a prayer, eats her meal and leaves. But I love that Maria joins the family lunch every month, although she could eat in her room - she chooses company and she's included, even when she faces the wall. We are different, with different needs but we all desire and deserve connection with others.

Our history and ancestors are a major connection to our community. If we understand where we come from and how we got here, we have an identity which helps us communicate with each other in a more empathetic way. Our lives will have more meaning and we have a better chance of feeling that we belong. In today's busy world of living in the "now", we don't allow ourselves to remember where and who we came from. We can feel isolated and alone. By discovering our ancestors, we can claim a connection with our community.

Roots are a symbol of resilience. In my experience, being deeply woven into community offers a foundation. With deep roots we can bend and flex in the face of adversity, rather than snapping under pressure. TOGETHER WE ARE STRONGER