Things I Wanted To Say But Never Did

The work Things I Wanted to Say But Never Did explores the materiality and production process of mother-of-pearl to convey an intimate metaphor for the absence of a maternal figure in my child’s life, while reflecting on the greatness of maternal love.

Pearls form when irritants or ocean debris become lodged within an oyster. Over time, the oyster secretes thousands of thin layers of nacre to cover and protect these irritants, solidifying them and safeguarding its fragile body.

There is a unique beauty in the formation of the pearl, as it carries with it love, care, and the spirit of perseverance—qualities that inspired me to create this work. By transforming mother-of-pearl into the shape of band-aids, I aim to express a personal healing process, reflecting the space of pain and insecurity in my childhood. It also serves as a symbol of unwavering love, a sacrifice made to protect a loved one.

The things I wanted to say but never did, the things I never had the chance to say: thank you, my dear grandma.