"The Empress" is a graphite drawing that embodies strength, resilience, and reclamation of self. The figure stands tall and confident, her back turned to the viewer, exuding a quiet power. Draped in a flowing cloth that cascades from her shoulder to her knees, the fabric softens her form while emphasizing her graceful yet commanding stance. Around her head is the faint impression of a halo, a symbolic nod to divinity and inner strength.

This piece was created in the aftermath of a deeply personal transition, as I began to find stability and rediscover my identity following a period of burnout and depression. The figure’s posture reflects a newfound sense of balance and self-assurance, standing as a beacon of empowerment and renewal.

The interplay of light and shadow in the graphite work brings a sense of depth and texture, enhancing the ethereal quality of the halo and the flowing fabric. "The Empress" is not just a celebration of femininity but also a tribute to resilience and growth. She stands as a reminder of the power that can emerge from vulnerability, embodying the strength it takes to rise from a place of struggle and reclaim your own narrative.