This collage is an introduction to the artist’s beliefs, values, and priorities. What started as reactionary artmaking is now a portrait of hope despite dreary circumstances. Realism flirts with illustration as the subject faces away from their window, turning away from a vibrant landscape and declaring simply, “life is cyclical”. The use of word magnets in the speech bubble, inspired by the popular Magnetic Poetry brand, speaks to American consumerism, one of many themes considered. Other themes include mental health, social justice issues, identity, and beauty.