My new figurative work reflects my exploration of abstracting the figure(s)and integrating them in the surrounding space with patterns, repetitions, and collage. My intent is a dreamlike floating space where I can express my emotions through colors and the postures of the figures.I love to draw faces and figures from my imagination in journals using pen and ink. These inspire me to create paintings in semi-abstract spaces. I have been greatly influenced by the Surrealists, Symbolists, German and Austrian Expressionists. I think about women’s obsession with body image, make-up, hairstyles, and accessories. I use mixed media, especially encaustic paints. With the paint I add and layer collage papers. I have a collection of papers including Asian calligraphy, Persian, sewing patterns, scientific illustrations, maps, old books, and journal entries.I create these pieces playfully with irony and humor.