Dear Old Nia

This self-portrait explores the reconciliation between my present self and the teenage girl I once was. The background includes artists I loved—SZA, Bali Baby, MARINA—and the mask from Girl Behind the Mask, creating a dialogue across time. I spent years criticizing my younger self when what I needed was grace. This piece reflects my journey toward self-compassion and growth. It honors the version of me who was trying her best with limited tools. Dear Old Nia is a love letter to those who struggled young and needed an older version of themselves to show up. What would happen if we embraced our past selves instead of resenting them? How much freer might we be?