Mahnaz Nezarati

With just a few months left until I turn thirty, I find myself pondering the last decade of my life. Nine years and nine months have passed since I blew out my twentieth candle. As I reflect, I think about all the choices I've made, both for myself and those that were forced upon me. I consider the new experiences of freedom, both spiritually and physically, and how they have shaped me into the person I am today. Walking along the edge of who I could have been, I gaze out into the horizon, and see new shades of color emerging within me; a little more red and blue. Gazing into the mirror, I hold onto a scarf - one that I choose, and one that was forced upon me. I wonder if I'm ready to celebrate who I have become, and if I'm ready to continue on this journey of self-discovery.

Oil color on canvas, 2018, 5.5 x 6 F.