In this project we created self portraits exploring the different shades of black. We used 2 sheets of Marillo paper and various black paints and inks. I used higgins eternal black, black magic, sumi ink, and mars black acrylic. This project was interesting and allowed me to compare the differences between various blacks. It also made me carefully consider what undertones the paints I use have. For my pieces I decided to make to separate paintings. I find the color black to be a very constricting color and so for my pieces I wanted to represent what makes me feel trapped. In my paintings, Sleep Apnea/Paralysis and Verbal Vomit respectively, I wanted to show how stress can trap us. I really wanted to include flowers in my pieces because while flowers are beautiful they can easily become overwhelming.