The title "Threshold" captures the essence of Crites’ painting and resonates with the concept of change and transition that permeates our human experience. The word evokes a sense of liminality, a space between what was and what will be. It hints at the potential for new beginnings, the excitement of stepping into the unknown, and the inherent uncertainty that accompanies those moments.
The idea of an evolving human consciousness is particularly intriguing. It suggests that the threshold we cross might lead us not only to new experiences but also to fundamentally different ways of perceiving and interacting with reality. This brings a sense of mystery and wonder to the piece, hinting at the vast possibilities that lie ahead, both individually and collectively.

"Everything Belongs", encapsulates the essence of embracing life in its entirety – the good, the bad, the beautiful, and the challenging. The artwork employs cellular imagery interwoven with the raw power of lightning and the life-sustaining flow of water. Lightning strikes within the clouds, symbolizing both the spark of creation and the suddenness of life's end. Water, essential for all living things, courses through the drawing, suggesting the continuous cycle of birth, growth, decay, and renewal. Acknowledging that "everything belongs," we open ourselves to a profound sense of acceptance and allowing, both within ourselves and in the world around us.
The artwork speaks to the continuous human journey towards inner peace. It highlights the importance of self-discovery, learning from our experiences, and maintaining a receptive heart even amidst our imperfections and missteps. "Everything Belongs" suggests a willingness to face our actions and words with honesty and compassion, fostering self-forgiveness and personal growth.

“Paradox”, contemplates the contrasts inherent to our lives...how can two seemingly opposite ideas both define truth? When we present our thoughts in an apparently self-contradictory form, it may sound absurd. The phrase, “vision is the art of seeing things invisible”, seemingly points toward a contradiction. We humans live lives full of such enigma in our personal experience and in the natural world. In this piece, fire can be a force of destruction, yet simultaneously represent a necessary force for refinement leading to powerful change. Facing challenging “tipping point” periods in our human experience often lead to transformations. When we choose to shift our perspectives and lifestyles during these times, we can discover paths to growth and well-being.
We also see positive modification in nature. Wildfires, while often seen as destructive, paradoxically play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance through controlled burns. In order to help reduce the risk of larger, uncontrolled wildfires by clearing out flammable debris, they can also stimulate the growth of fire-adapted vegetation.

“Carried", evokes a sense of connection and continuity. It suggests the profound bond between generations, the way in which the love and legacy of a family are carried forward through time. From the tender act of carrying a newborn, symbolizing the beginning of life and the responsibility of nurturing a new generation, to the support and camaraderie we experience within our communities, as we "carry on" through life's challenges and triumphs, “Carried” encapsulates the shared human experience.
Finally, the somber image of carrying loved ones in caskets and urns upon death acknowledges the inevitable end of our physical journey while underscoring the enduring power of love and memory. The act of carrying, in this context, becomes an act of remembrance, a way to honor the lives that have touched our own.
"Carried" speaks to the profound rhythm of human consciousness, reminding us that we are all part of something larger than ourselves. It invites viewers to contemplate the continuity of life, the interconnectedness of generations, and the enduring power of love and memory to transcend even death.

“Theta”, and subsequent research into theta waves lead to a fascinating question about the nature of consciousness and its possible connection to a larger universal network. The similarity in brainwave patterns between newborns and those nearing the end of life suggests a fascinating question about the nature of consciousness between these two stages of our lives.
The idea of a universal network of consciousness is a concept often explored in philosophy and spirituality. There is no scientific evidence to definitively prove or disprove such a network, and it's important to remember that the concept of a universal consciousness network remains theoretical. However, this intersection of art, science, and spirituality in Crites' work encourages further exploration and contemplation of these mysteries and our place in the universe.

“Arrivals Departures”, contemplates the profound mysteries of human existence, inviting viewers to ponder the cyclical nature of life, from birth to death, and the evolution of consciousness itself. With three new drawings and three new paintings in her 2024 exhibition, “Carried”, the artist hopes to spark conversations about the shared human experience and the universal questions that connect us all. The artist found joy reconnecting with her passion for drawing, especially during such a significant time in her life. Becoming a grandmother is undoubtedly a powerful and transformative experience, and she has chosen to express her wonderment and emotions through her artwork. They are a testament to the power of art to capture the complexities of human experience and to connect us all to something larger than ourselves.