As one of four brothers I had a very early glimpse at the complicated ways in which boys are encouraged to interact with one another. From suppressed emotions to bids for dominance, safe and vulnerable relationships with my male peers never seemed possible. In my series, “flowers for him” I reflect on my relationships with the men in my life, specifically on the evasiveness of showing tenderness and communicating love. Understanding the rarity of true male friendship, I honor these men through sculptural, ceramic vessels. In reference to Medieval Christian reliquaries, adorned with ornate symbolism, these pieces act as the final resting place for personally sacred objects. Embracing a classically feminine symbol, I use floral motifs to tie the men to the femininity that garnered our closeness. In construction I use a combination of wheel thrown and hand-built approaches, highlighting seams of connection that parallel the complicated construction of relationships. My work serves as an offering to the men I love, the men I lost, and the men I haven’t loved yet. In this moment, I invite you to partake in your own offering to reflect on the men in your life. Maybe its love, forgiveness, or grief, whatever you carry, take a flower, and let it all be for him