Empathy Cubes explores the emotional weight of care and the complexity of giving. Built from slabs into a flattened human form,
the piece features soft, repetitive “squish cubes” attached with wire, emerging from within the figure, especially near the heart. These shapes symbolize warmth, vulnerability, and emotional labor. Inspired by my mother’s deep empathy as a teacher, her small generous acts of support for her students, this piece reflects how love can radiate outward, yet often depletes the giver. Through simplicity of form and repetition, Empathy Cubes honors the beauty and quiet sacrifice of emotional generosity.