In Yield, the primary markings (sgraffito) through wax, recount the timeline of a couple (at left and right, represented by two vertical lines together) within the cacophony of opiate and heroin addiction.

Recurring symbols of opiates (outlines of pills and poppies), EKG flatlines, and the adjacent relationships impacted, illustrate the tragedies of overdoes and personal ruin due to unrelenting dependence.

I’ve been witness to these tragedies; administering Narcan a dozen times to friends and loved ones. Past addicts find recovery through strong and reliable relationships; lifelong friendships based on unconditional love and support.

The day after I completed this work, a close family friend, isolated and alone, overdosed from opiates and passed away. Another close friend died from similar circumstances a month later.

Though self-referential, this works resonates with those who have made it to the other side of the timeline and gives hope to those on that journey.