Inspiration

Creating the piece “PTS” (PTSD) throughout this last year was a form of therapy for me. My father, also known as Chief Master Sergeant Robert Burgess, served in the war and came back changed. I expected him to come back changed, but not permanently. The changes in my family were indescribable. Working on ‘PTS’ (PTSD)  was originally an escape from the changes but it became the very place that helped me process my feelings. I disconnected my mind and put my body into it. I drew, sculpted, sanded and physically worked through what I was feeling. The 2D chalk pastel drawing transitions to a 3D sculpture made of plaster, metal, and wood. It resembles the transition of my denial of my father having PTS to a tangible reality in my life. The abstract forms coming from the helmet resemble what cannot be described. My father’s eyes constantly remind me that he has experienced things that can’t be described or understood unless you have experienced it yourself.

Thank you to all who have served!