Self-reflection is a wood and glass sculpture inspired by Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. The top level of the pyramid flips over creating a chair while the rest of the sculpture acts as a table for tea, for coffee— for self-reflection.

Each level includes both standard mirror and two-way mirror glass symbolizing the work we mirror with one another as well as the work that is internal that you may not be able to see. While Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is a structure that is taught in countless textbooks, Maslow was actually not the creator of the pyramid structure we widely associate with his hierarchy at all.

The sculpture also parallels wealth inequality with those at the top of the pyramid (the 1%) having most of the power and control. The flipping of the pyramid, however, symbolizes a change in mindset. Is self-reflection in our society a privilege? What if we were to change the hierarchical system altogether? If money, power, were no longer at the top?...When is enough… enough?…

1. Physiological needs,

2. Safety needs,

3. Love and belonging,

4. Esteem,

5. Self-actualization (being the top triangle layer).

Are you able to get to a place of not chasing, not climbing? Leaving space for reflection, a pivot in mindset? To use creativity as a tool to push you out of your own circumstance?...Is it possible to stand in multiple levels, multiple layers all at once? To flip it over on its head to reorganize and reimagine?