As a kid playtime became an escape from reality, a world of my own. As l've matured I have moved on from dolls and toys to other mediums of play. Within my art I utilize playfulness as a means to explore and express memories from throughout my life. I have always been very private about my personal life. Mentioning labels such as Mexican American, low income, child of separated parents, child of felon parent, child of immigrant parents and etc. can be difficult and uncomfortable. I have lived a complicated life and I'm not good at verbally expressing my feelings about it. Art has helped me reconnect with my younger self to cope through these emotions. My art is about memorializing, the negative and positive, memories in a visual aspect by talking without words. My goal is to feel alive and powerful by embracing my past, but most of all relieved to not have to remain hidden about my unique life story. My approach to being playful is by utilizing a 3D/2D form that immediately catches the viewer's eye. A form that lures the viewer to get close and personal with the memorialized memory. It persuades the viewer to insert themselves in a memory and wonder the meaning behind every detail and decision. The 2D aspect correlates back to a childhood photo, while the 3D is more spontaneous to the mood of the memory. During the construction process I like to get in the mindset of a childlike scientist that will allow whatever to happen with curiosity I want to show my truth shamelessly and if someone is able to connect with my art and feel seen/represented I feel joyous and grateful to be able to do such a beautiful thing. I realize now that my purpose is to bring light to vulnerability to exhibit the hidden realities. Vulnerability is a scary thing, but to feel seen without needing to explain verbally, can be enlightening. I want to normalize acceptance of the unconventional aspects of ones life. Playtime with my art has allowed me to redefine my life and my