12"x24"x12"; walnut, white oak, white oak veneer, found thorns; 2022

Crown of Thorns (Protection Artifact) is a sculptural experiment extending the twisted arches motif that recurs throughout this body of work. Built upon the vertical structure of a cross, the piece uses precise joinery to connect two smaller twisted arches with two larger ones, forming a crown-like geometry. The arches articulate the interior angles of the twisted form and are outlined in white oak, creating an illuminated effect that visually binds the object back to the cross beneath it. Contained within this vessel is a collection of thorns gathered from rose bushes outside a Planned Parenthood clinic. Referencing the crown of thorns worn by Christ, the sculpture functions as both reliquary and talisman. It holds pain, rather than denying it, while offering a form of protection. The work suggests that spiritual and sexual enlightenment is earned through risk and vulnerability, the path forward is not harmless, and contact may wound, but meaning is forged in that exposure.