The Sphinx Gate
This artwork draws inspiration from a childhood memory of watching The NeverEnding Story and the unforgettable scene where Atreyu faces the challenge of passing through the Sphinx Gate. The image of the two yellow sphinxes, their eyes shooting lasers at anyone attempting to pass, left an indelible mark on me. To pass, one must be a child, a brave warrior, or possess a kind, thoughtful, and courageous heart. Those caught in their gaze are frozen, condemned to death by lasers. This scene profoundly impacted my imagination, altering my sense of self and worth. It left me questioning: Would I be worthy? Who are the judges, and how do they decide? This artwork channels that wonder, fear, and introspection into a visual exploration of worthiness and the unseen forces that test us.
My artwork employs shadow effects that create the illusion of figures subtly lifted or dislocated from their background, evoking a sense of otherworldly detachment. Each figure is encased in a luminous aura, as if illuminated by an enigmatic, distant energy source—a power both ethereal and untouchable. This interplay of light and shadow not only enhances depth and mystery but also deepens the sense of spiritual alienation, as though the figures exist in a liminal space between worlds.
Acrylic & Oil Pastel
100cm x 100cm
Canvas - Framed
FOLLOW ME on Instagram
@floreo.creative
This artwork draws inspiration from a childhood memory of watching The NeverEnding Story and the unforgettable scene where Atreyu faces the challenge of passing through the Sphinx Gate. The image of the two yellow sphinxes, their eyes shooting lasers at anyone attempting to pass, left an indelible mark on me. To pass, one must be a child, a brave warrior, or possess a kind, thoughtful, and courageous heart. Those caught in their gaze are frozen, condemned to death by lasers. This scene profoundly impacted my imagination, altering my sense of self and worth. It left me questioning: Would I be worthy? Who are the judges, and how do they decide? This artwork channels that wonder, fear, and introspection into a visual exploration of worthiness and the unseen forces that test us.
My artwork employs shadow effects that create the illusion of figures subtly lifted or dislocated from their background, evoking a sense of otherworldly detachment. Each figure is encased in a luminous aura, as if illuminated by an enigmatic, distant energy source—a power both ethereal and untouchable. This interplay of light and shadow not only enhances depth and mystery but also deepens the sense of spiritual alienation, as though the figures exist in a liminal space between worlds.
Acrylic & Oil Pastel
100cm x 100cm
Canvas - Framed
FOLLOW ME on Instagram
@floreo.creative
This artwork draws inspiration from a childhood memory of watching The NeverEnding Story and the unforgettable scene where Atreyu faces the challenge of passing through the Sphinx Gate. The image of the two yellow sphinxes, their eyes shooting lasers at anyone attempting to pass, left an indelible mark on me. To pass, one must be a child, a brave warrior, or possess a kind, thoughtful, and courageous heart. Those caught in their gaze are frozen, condemned to death by lasers. This scene profoundly impacted my imagination, altering my sense of self and worth. It left me questioning: Would I be worthy? Who are the judges, and how do they decide? This artwork channels that wonder, fear, and introspection into a visual exploration of worthiness and the unseen forces that test us.
My artwork employs shadow effects that create the illusion of figures subtly lifted or dislocated from their background, evoking a sense of otherworldly detachment. Each figure is encased in a luminous aura, as if illuminated by an enigmatic, distant energy source—a power both ethereal and untouchable. This interplay of light and shadow not only enhances depth and mystery but also deepens the sense of spiritual alienation, as though the figures exist in a liminal space between worlds.
Acrylic & Oil Pastel
100cm x 100cm
Canvas - Framed
FOLLOW ME on Instagram
@floreo.creative
Artist Statement
Art has the power to hold space for difficult emotions, experiences, thoughts, and sensations,and unspoken truths—speaking softly where words cannot reach.
My work celebrates the playful, untamed spirit within—a vibrant exploration of connection, resilience, and transformation. Rooted in my Belizean heritage and Mayan ancestry, I draw from cultural symbolism and personal experiences to create bold, large-scale mixed-media works that bridge the personal and universal.
Using layers of acrylic and oil pastel, I craft dynamic, intuitive compositions alive with vivid colors and intricate patterns. Recurring motifs such as the Jaguar, the Cactus, and the Lady embody ferocity, strength, and transformation. These symbols reflect our shared longing to reconnect with the “wild twin” inside us—the essence urging us toward authenticity and self-discovery.
Through my art, I explore themes of alienation, optimism, and belonging. I invite viewers to find meaning in the interplay between chaos and harmony, to celebrate their own wild spirit, and to embrace the beauty of transformation and inner strength.
