Removed Restricted Resurfaced is a multi-layered vessel driven in concept by the 100 pluswords that have been removed from the Federal governments websites since the beginning of 2025. According to the New York Times these words were removed to purge the federal government of“woke”ideology. While not officially banned, these words have also become flags on grants and federal contracts.

The sculpture was woven with hand painted paper with written words on the weavers. Even if the words are not always fully readable, they are forever imbedded into the vessel. To further conceal these words, I added a looping layer of cord over the woven paper. A thirdlayer features strips of paper inscribed with the vanishing words, threaded randomly through the loops. This arrangement suggests that although words can be removed and restricted, their essence cannot be truly erased. The selection of words encompasses subjects such as diversity, equality, inclusion, gender, and climate science, as well as terms representing minorities.

Removed Restricted Resurfaced stands as a reminder of the voices silenced and the consequences of erasing language from the public sphere. The vessel invites viewers toreflect on the impact of censorship, urging us to recognize the enduring power of words andthe importance of preserving open, inclusive dialogue in society.Words used in Removed Restricted Resurfaced:Accessible, advocate, bias, Black, climate science, disability, diverse, equality, female,Gulf of Mexico, inclusive, LGBTQ, mental health, privilege, racial, sexuality, tribal, victim