“Buddha, Why Am I Alone?” was an exhibit at AVALANCHE! Institute of Contemporary Art in 2015. It was me searching for who I was and what the meaning of life is in the wake of a failed relationship, but turned around and ended up encouraging me despite my intentions.

It featured slightly despondent works such as experimental sheet music about events in my life, written for my old instrument, the Flute, that would be near impossible to play; maps of Calgary with all bodies of water removed; and passport photos of myself before and after reading Plato’s Dialogues. However, it also featured a Jazz Drummer, hired to play for three hours during the reception by himself, recalling some of my favourite musical moments growing up watching jazz soloists play at jazz festivals. This collaboration was meant to be somewhat despondent in nature as well, but unexpectedly the beauty of the drummer’s music and commitment to his craft, stood as a challenge to me and an encouraging inspiration during a dark time. I am thankful for this exhibition!