"Several of my archetypal subjects come together in this painting - the gaping mouth, the broom, transparency, reflection, and the gaze. In 'The Appraisal' we see the broom donning a ruff collar an gloves, typical accessories from european historical paintings of aristocrats. The gaping mouth reflected in the mirror reveals this is not an image of delight, but in fact is an image of terror. Implied by this costume are brutal histories of systemic oppression. The painting reminds us of the sinister underpinnings in the aspirational branding that bombards us daily."
— Emily Mae Smith