This sculpture is a sealed collar and cannot be worn. Comprised of capiz shells, copper foil, lead/tin solder, 24kt gold leaf, cowrie shells, and fabric trim, Body Armor is my attempt to commune with my pre-colonial ancestors. So much of our history was erased or ignored byover 300 years of Spanish control and 50 years of American imperialism. I believe it's imperative for everyone to be able to reach back to their ancestors for us to truly know ourselves and reach our potential for the short time we're on this planet.