Portrait of Inhibitions
24”x36”
Charcoal
2025
My self-portrait is a section of my body showing two of my greatest obstacles as a dancer. I have dramatized these two areas to emphasize them as focal points. The first area is my spine and back. I often struggled with scoliosis, tight back muscles, and back pain during my 13 years as a pre-professional dancer. It habitually made dance more challenging for me as I found myself having to work harder than others to overcome my physical discomforts and limitations.
The second area is my right hip where I have multiple scars, two of which are shown. I underwent hip surgery at the age of 15 because of a labral tear caused by dance’s over exertion and flexion of the body and a pre-existing hip bone impingement. Determined not to miss opportunities and be set back, I continued to perform and train with the Atlanta Ballet until the time of my surgery. I also auditioned for my residential dream dance school while injured. My resolve was worth it. During my recovery, I learned of my acceptance into UNCSA and merit scholarship awards. I then spent my remaining high school freshman year and summer in Covid lockdown and physical therapy determined to make a full recovery, so I could attend and dance at UNCSA.