Bo

In my collection of art, I embarked on a journey of reimagination, taking simple but iconic characters as my starting point and then setting them adrift in a sea of "What if" questions. My process was far from linear; each character underwent numerous iterations as they took the reins, ultimately guiding the narrative in unexpected directions. Through many layers of paint, this cast of characters tried on various "costumes" of resilience, tenderness, and humor, ultimately settling into versions of themselves that felt authentic and compelling. I’m delighted to present these reimagined heroines and to learn about their next chapters as they make their way out into the world.
 
Creating "Bo":

The nursery rhyme featuring Little Bo Peep casts the young shepherdess in a rather unfavorable light. Initially, she loses her entire flock of sheep. Then, rather than looking for them, she is overcome with feelings of helplessness and opts to take a nap. When she eventually rouses herself and decides to search for them, it's too late—her flock has met a tragic end, leaving her heartbroken. This one was just BEGGING for a rewrite!

What if Ms. Peep wasn't portrayed as a helpless sheep loser?

What if both she and her flock were fully capable of looking after themselves, thank you very much?

What if she wasn't the "black sheep" of the herding community, but rather a skilled and confident shepherdess?

In my reinterpretation, I aimed to infuse “Bo” and her wooly buddies with a sense of strength and capability, transforming her from a passive figure to an assertive and resourceful leader of her flock.