In her evocative series “Kissing Barbies,” she delves into the complex interplay of darkness and whimsy. Examining themes of memory and its preservation. She posits that by encapsulating her visual reflections—snapshots of both joy and sorrow—in resin, she not only honors these moments but also transcends them. This act of preservation allows her to navigate past experiences, not by erasure but through acknowledgment and homage, illustrating how present perceptions are invariably colored by the past.

 

At the heart of this collection lies Monica’s introspective journey through the prism of her childhood, presenting a nuanced critique of the beauty paradigms imposed on young girls. This “twisted homage” goes beyond mere nostalgia, confronting the lingering shadows of childhood indoctrination and its dissonance with adult realities.

 

The series employs stark contrasts and the strategic use of negative space, where Monica’s hands emerge from the void, a metaphor for vulnerability and personal revelation. The juxtaposition of playful elements, like smiley faces on fingernails and Monica seemingly playing with the Barbie’s , against the stark, unnerving exposure of the Barbies, speaks to the tension between innocence and the imposed sexualization and beauty standards that haunt both youth and adulthood.

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