The Fence Between What Was and What Must Be

Acrylic on Canvas
18x24 inches
2025

Wearing a costume store cape over house clothes, this child climbs—not out of play, but out of something deeper. The fence isn’t just a backyard obstacle; it’s the line between the safety of childhood and the tough world waiting beyond.
Behind the mask is a kid who had to grow up too soon, who already knows that life isn’t made of sunshines and rainbows. He might look like he’s just playing pretend, but deep down, this is preparation. A quiet act of courage from someone who understands that strength is something you earn through struggle.
This kid is me. A younger version of myself learning to be brave in a world that asked for too much, too early.
"The Fence Between What Was and What Must Be" honors the kids (like i used to be) who carry more than they should, who trade innocence for resilience, and who still choose to climb toward whatever comes next, no matter how uncertain.