We commissioned artist Galen Dara to illustrate a piece of her choice, and she chose her inspiration in family and the internal exploration of what we take for given truths.

Below, you can see the finished piece for “Unspooling Her Heart,” and read Dara’s words on the process and concept behind it.

"Unspooling Her Heart" ©2022 by Galen Dara

In my personal work I’m exploring themes of unfurling, unraveling, falling apart? Falling to pieces maybe. Exposing the insides of things. Exposing what was thought to be solid to actually be quite ephemeral. Taking a closer look at the coding, at the DNA, at generational trauma and family of origin attachment styles. Rebirth, rejuvenation, reinvention, rewriting the code.

Below, Dara reveals how she works, using layering, color, and finally texture to create her dreamlike images:

Process for “Unspooling Her Heart” © 2022 by Galen Dara