I originally intended this piece to be about an artist versus imposter syndrome. However, around the time I completed "Mermaid Mother" I was suffering from postpartum depression and anxiety after the birth of my son. This painting transformed into one about my early months of motherhood. I had many irrational doubts about my ability to be a good mother, and felt really disconnected from my son.
The overall scene is yellow for fear and joy. Cardboard suns and crowns highlight these emotions I felt while adjusting to motherhood. Medusa's shadow lingers in the doorway threatening to separate the mother from her baby. The mermaid mother clings protectively to her newborn, facing the open doorway and medusa. I have used the mermaid and the medusa in other drawings to express my battle with anxiety and depression, but this is the only one without a weapon in hand. Instead she bears a shield to protect both herself and her child.