He called me High Maintenance explores the complicated expectations placed on women and the labels used to diminish those who refuse to make themselves smaller.
Often disguised as criticism, the phrase "high maintenance" suggests that a woman expects too much, demands too much attention, or requires more effort than someone is willing to give. But where does having standards end and being considered difficult begin? The painting challenges the notion that wanting respect, attention, and emotional investment should be interpreted as a flaw.
A poised female figure emerges against a vibrant turquoise background, surrounded by electric greens, expressive marks, and handwritten text. Her composed appearance contrasts with the restless energy surrounding her, creating a tension between how women are expected to present themselves and the complicated emotions beneath that polished exterior.
Through layers of mixed media and resin, the work combines nostalgic femininity with contemporary defiance. Playful yet confrontational, "He called me High Maintenance" questions who gets to decide when a woman is asking for too much—and whether she should ever have to apologize for knowing her worth.
Original mixed media artwork
Resin and mixed media on cradled wood
30 × 24 × 1.75 inches
Created in 2025
One-of-a-kind original
Signed by the artist
Price: $3,000
He called me High Maintenance explores the complicated expectations placed on women and the labels used to diminish those who refuse to make themselves smaller.
Often disguised as criticism, the phrase "high maintenance" suggests that a woman expects too much, demands too much attention, or requires more effort than someone is willing to give. But where does having standards end and being considered difficult begin? The painting challenges the notion that wanting respect, attention, and emotional investment should be interpreted as a flaw.
A poised female figure emerges against a vibrant turquoise background, surrounded by electric greens, expressive marks, and handwritten text. Her composed appearance contrasts with the restless energy surrounding her, creating a tension between how women are expected to present themselves and the complicated emotions beneath that polished exterior.
Through layers of mixed media and resin, the work combines nostalgic femininity with contemporary defiance. Playful yet confrontational, "He called me High Maintenance" questions who gets to decide when a woman is asking for too much—and whether she should ever have to apologize for knowing her worth.
Original mixed media artwork
Resin and mixed media on cradled wood
30 × 24 × 1.75 inches
Created in 2025
One-of-a-kind original
Signed by the artist
Price: $3,000
