Serena Viola Corson 

 My interest in painting still lifes ramped up during the global pandemic when everyone was isolated at home surrounded by their accumulating personal possessions. Each painting intentionally curates pairings of books and belongings forming a sort of still self-portrait. Although my art is meant to allude to daunting issues, such as the loneliness epidemic and global patriarchal capitalism, I hope the bright colors, flowers, playful patterns, and the veneration of everyday objects retain an uplifting sense of joy, gratitude, and wonder.