Lacquered to Death

This sculpture features a thick, shiny gold lacquer that stops halfway down a large, pear-shaped bronze form. The effect creates a striking contrast between the natural, organic surface of the gourd-like body and the polished exterior — a visual metaphor for presentation and protection.

The high-finish top half suggests a reflective smile, a façade we wear to be seen a certain way. It speaks to the common human experience of curating how we’re perceived, while the exposed pear shape below honours the raw, vulnerable forms we are beneath. Façade holds both truths — the strength in presentation and the beauty of authenticity.