Artist Statement 2026 Pacifica Graduate Institute
As an interior designer, I create Sacred Spaces through Design Alchemy, where transforming interiors goes beyond aesthetics to create environments that resonate with the soul. My work is deeply rooted in the philosophy of Creating Your Sacred Space, where each element is carefully curated to foster peace, inspiration, and individuality. As people evolve throughout their lives, their individuation becomes more like a rhizome, “beginning without an end,” a constant state of variation and expansion. Deleuze and Guattari write, “It has neither beginning nor end, but always a middle from which it grows and which it overspills. It creates linear multiplicities with dimensions that have neither subject nor object, which can be arranged on a plane of continuity, and from which the One is always subtracted. When such a multiplicity changes dimension, it necessarily undergoes a metamorphosis and changes in nature as well.” At the heart of my design philosophy is the process of Individuation, a journey inspired by Jung’s (1939) teachings and his concept of the numinous, or sacredness. In Healing Fiction, Hillman reminds us that the stories we tell, whether through words, images, or spaces, are not about uncovering a single, absolute truth but about engaging the imagination in ways that heal and expand the soul. In this sense, my design practice approaches each room as a narrative fiction: a space where multiple meanings can coexist.
Rather than imposing a fixed style, I invite layers of story, color, and texture to emerge, so the environment becomes a living dialogue with its inhabitants. This journey involves discovering and expressing an individual's unique identity through the spaces we inhabit. Environments should reflect our unconscious, acting as a canvas where our personal stories unfold. To achieve this, I focus on the interplay of color, texture, placement, and light, each element carefully chosen to evoke emotion and meaning and to bring our ancestors through alchemy. Color is a powerful tool in my design toolkit. It can transform a space, uplifting or relaxing, energizing or soothing. I see color as more than just a visual element; it is an emotional experience. I select each hue to match the space's energy and purpose, creating a balanced environment that supports the well-being of its occupants.
Texture adds depth and dimension, inviting touch and interaction. It makes a space tactile, engaging the senses in a way that is both grounding and invigorating. Whether it is the roughness of reclaimed wood or the softness of plush fabric, texture brings a space to life by adding layers of complexity and interest. Placement involves arranging elements within a space to create flow and harmony. It requires understanding how objects interact with one another and the energy they emit. Thoughtful placement can transform a room by guiding movement and focus. Art plays a central role in my designs, serving as both inspiration and a focal point. Through art, a space gains character and soul, telling stories that resonate with those who occupy it.
Incorporating natural elements is central to my design approach. By blurring the boundaries between inside and outside, I aim to create spaces in harmony with the natural world. This connection to nature not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also fosters a sense of peace and renewal. I am passionate about recycling and repurposing, breathing new life into old pieces and integrating them into the space to add character and interest. This approach creates a unique look while supporting my commitment to environmental sustainability.
Light is my favorite element to incorporate into my designs. It can change the mood, shape, and highlight emotional responses in any space. Ultimately, my goal is to create spaces that are not only visually appealing but also emotionally meaningful, spaces that nurture the spirit, inspire creativity, and foster a deep connection to oneself and the world around us.
Through Design Alchemy, Creating Your Sacred Space, I aim to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary by crafting environments that are truly sacred and meaningful.
