Mona Monroe

My work is about memory, protection, and the stories we carry—both seen and unseen. I use layered textures, found fabrics, abstract shapes, and handmade marks to create pieces that feel like relics or talismans. They hold emotion, history, and a bit of mystery.

Lately, I’ve been drawn to ancient protective symbols—often called “witches’ marks.” These were once carved into homes or objects to ward off harm. I use them as a way to explore how we try to feel safe, both physically and emotionally. They sit at the intersection of fear, belief, and survival—universal things we all experience.

I build my pieces through a process of layering and revealing. Paint and materials are added, then scraped away or stitched over—like memories surfacing over time. I often repeat certain shapes and marks, almost like a chant or prayer, letting them evolve into a kind of personal language.

Binding and wrapping are important in my work. They suggest both care and restraint—holding something together while also protecting it. I use cloth that I’ve buried outside and hand-stitched elements not just for their texture, but for the emotional weight they carry. Sewing becomes a form of healing—each thread a quiet act of repair.

Through this process, I reflect on what it means to protect, to grieve, and to transform. I’ve always been drawn to the spiritual as a way to escape the discomfort of reality. These works are my way of navigating loss, memory, and the unknown—offering a space where viewers can connect through fragments, symbols, and quiet reflection.