#wrenwest

Me before and after getting my head shaved

Cleveland Animal Protection League

Laurie Jo Reynolds, Space Ghost

Transgender community map

A bird builds a nest to keep itself safe, as do I. I build up my home only to stay in it, surrounding myself with comfort objects. I lay in my bed, wondering if it is right to be like this, and to not want to change. I wonder if it’s okay to stay in a box of my own making, only allowing others to peek inside. I wonder if it’s okay to not want to leave, even for food or drink. I wonder if it is normal to be so afraid of the world around me.

Birds’ nests are created to provide a home for them and their offspring. Although these nests may not be used more than once per season, it’s still the shelter provided that means everything for these animals. With my piece, I plan to convey a message similar to that. I feel a strong connection towards birds, how they live their lives, their mannerisms and such, and I wish to portray that connection through this nest. My nest, however, is only meant for myself. It is a solitary home that will not allow others in. The nest represents my tendency to stick close to home, only leaving when absolutely necessary. I feel afraid to leave that place of comfort, whether it be because a sense of self-preservation, or just unneeded paranoia. I tend to be wary of many outside situations, like a bird, and take flight when things feel as if they might go south. My nest is based off the box nests made for birds who make their homes in tree cavities. Specifically, House Wrens and American Kestrels. Inside that box will be the bits and pieces weaved together. The materials used for the nest are found objects; twigs, feathers, paper, cardboard, things that typically go into the construction of a bird nest, with the inclusion of other, more personal, items.