'The Heart Is A Dagger Above All Else' is the title of my first solo gallery show. This painting is the first I'd completed, it's a portrait of Joan of Arc as she's being called to arms by a mysterious and divine voice. The entire show consists of portraits of 'femme fatales' or deadly women. It will consist of historical women who have been labeled 'femme fatales' by society such as Judith, Cleopatra and Mata Hari, as well as portraits of mythological 'femme fatales' consisting of Vampires and Sirens. I've been studying surrealist women and Klimt patterns for inspiration. I also plan on creating a series of wearable weapons using small vintage pocket knives as centerpieces. The show opens July 26th from 5-9 at Mew Gallery in Philadelphia.