Here, the artist uses both color and negative space to capture the frenzied energy inherent to a creative mind. As is so apparent in the work, the mind is always creating, always busy, always at work. The thoughts and memories are, to put it in the words of the artist himself, “so masticated.”

In this work from the year 2000, the artist conveys the fears and uncertainties of starting a new millennium. Fire and monsters and bombs (as seen in the work) represent the artist’s concern that technology will stifle mankind’s creativity in the years to come. And yet, as the arms raised high above the volcano show, there is still hope that humanity will persevere and find harmony with nature.

In this seemingly simplistic work, named by the artist’s father, the artist uses simple line drawings to capture the agony and regret of one who has acted in the wrong. Although the figures in the painting are smiling, pain is clearly evident behind the smiles. According to art critics and historians, the deep sorrow underlying the work stems from the artist’s rash decision to, apparently, tear off his beloved sister’s nipples.

In this well-known drawing, the artist manages to create a true enigma wherein no matter how much you rotate the work, the correct orientation is unclear. This is a reflection on our modern world, where disorientation and unease are so pervasive. This piece (and the statement it makes) is one of the artist’s most powerful works.

Looking back to his childhood, the artist reveals how, even at a young age, he was infatuated by the desire for academic achievement and “reaching for the stars.” This ambition clearly served the artist well in his life, as he was admitted to the prestigious Bemidji State University early-decision, without even submitting an official application.

In this seminal piece, the artist shares his perspective on the importance of matriarchal figures. He views women as on a pedestal, creating life and moving humanity towards future generations that will learn, grow, and eventually resolve the hierarchical disconnect of our modern patriarchy. Truly, this is a masterpiece of the early feminist art movement.