I made this sculpture for my AP Art class. My assignment was to create a three-dimensional piece using a new medium, so I decided to try out carvable foam. I found the foam tricky to work with, but I enjoyed the challenge and was pleased with the final result.

The phoenix is one of the most iconic symbols of renewal. It was originally a Greek mythological creature, but this monster has developed a more positive connotation over time. In this sculpture, I wanted to capture the how the phoenix would look in flight.

When the phoenix dies, legend has it that it bursts into flames and a new phoenix rises from its ashes. Because my portfolio has a lot to do with mental health, I felt the phoenix was one of the most fitting symbols for overcoming illness: you can walk through the fire and become whole again.

For inspiration, I researched the work of the artist Malena Bozzini, who continually challenges herself to use new materials in her sculptures. Then, I pulled numerous reference photos for the phoenix and created a few sketches of my own. The illustration I designed in the middle of the page is what became the basis for my sculpture.

To make this sculpture, I purchased a foam carving block that I knew would be tall enough for my design. Then, I drew the outline of the phoenix and cut out the basic shape with a handsaw. Next, I drew feathery details on the shape. Using a multitool knife and wood-burning kit, I then carved in the finer details. To complete the project, I painted the foam, first with a spray paint base and then with acrylic paint.

In literature, the phoenix represents death and rebirth. Most people struggle with breaking out of negative thought patterns, but I wanted to show—through my artwork—that it is possible to break damaging patterns and create new healthy habits. In other words, this sculpture represents hope, renewal, and rebirth.