Twisted

The trophy I created is a deeply personal representation of my journey through injury and recovery. Comprising three pieces of rebar and circular discs forming the base, it's wrapped with aged rope symbolizing the twists and turns of my life. Atop this base rests an anatomically correct-sized spine, representing the vertebrae L3, L4, and L5, which were removed due to injuries sustained during my service in the army.

The muted colors—olive green, earthy tones of the rope, and sand-blasted bronze—reflect a deliberate choice to remain grounded throughout this process, resonating with the Army's color palette. Each part of the trophy tells a story of pain, struggle, and triumph, a reminder of the challenges conquered and the resilience and courage that define my journey.

Cast in bronze, the twisted spine pieces reflect the physical and emotional turmoil I endured. The rope, reminiscent of ivy, intertwines around the spine, embodying healing and adaptation. It holds the spine pieces together, a metaphor for resilience.

As the rope ascends, it coils around the spine, mirroring the growth of ivy climbing a wall. At the top, it comes back together, symbolizing the unity and closure found in overcoming adversity. The coiled rope at the pinnacle signifies resilience reaching its peak, a testament to the journey of rebuilding and growth.