Witch Crafted

Accessories – San Jose

In Greek \"psychopomp\" means \"guide of souls\". Depictions of these servants of the dead appear across all cultures. Their roles are not to judge the deceased, but to provide safe passage through the afterlife. In my work I strive to embody this metaphysical role to facilitate a dialogue about the fragility and strength of mortality, and to celebrate the beauty and eternity of the at times heartbreaking and frightening cycle of life and death. I also seek to engage with environmental conservation and education by providing hands on biological specimens with an artistic flourish to inspire others around me to take a closer look at the amazing creatures we share this planet with. I hand process all of my materials to ensure an ethical source, which entails procuring legal species of deceased animals and processing their remains. I have networked with farmers, butchers, pet owners, as well as scavenging road kill. All my skills have been self discovered via the incredible online community of taxidermists, naturists, and scientists. Whose forums and personal communications have been my gateway to such an enriching artistic path. I have been practicing art in various forms for over 15 years. These mediums include traditional drawing and painting, digital photography, rogue taxidermy, mixed media sculpture, and costuming. I came to a greater dedication to working with remains and other natural phenomena in 2009 and have been left with so many beautiful lessons because of it.