The artworks in the Past World section are some of my earliest attempts at collage. “Seeking” was the first collage piece I created which inspired me to not only learn more about collage but also how to use this particular modality to create art, instead of confining it to a hobby only. The Lotus Lights examples are my first experimentation with bringing oil paints into my work, where I had formerly resisted using anything other than “found” materials. Although I do not believe these to be my strongest works, I find value in their experimentation, early struggles with mastering the basics of collage, and as a barometer for my progress and growth through this artistic medium.