Christiana Mercado is a self-taught artist living and working in Memphis, Tennessee. Her mediums consist of acrylic paintings, found objects, organic materials and modeling clay. 

“To create is a primitive act; I stop using my neocortex, and allow my reptilian brain the full use of my hands and vision. If I don't fully surrender, I still go through with the act of creating, because it is how I combat everything that challenges my sense of self and means of survival. For me, art is a mythical portal to escape the fear of the unknown. If I am scared or overwhelmed by my own body, I like to explore that feeling in my work. I create with the intent of maintaining a connection to the natural world, and the unseen world, so that I do not fall victim to monotony."