Artist Statement: I rarely paint portraits, much less a self-portrait. Looking through a filter of rain is a metaphor for how health issues can color everything. At this stage in my life, I’m reflecting on who I am, what I’ve accomplished, why I’m here and what’s still left to do. I am hidden behind dark glasses, a veil in addition to the rain, hiding from myself as well. The streaks of rain create fissures in what is more of an automaton than a person. I learned a few things while painting this, not the big life questions, but it’s a start.