My artwork examines the realm of the subconscious through constructed symbols, such as puppets, shadows, and theatrical allusions; through the visual and contextual language of these symbols, I question the lines drawn between fiction and reality. My work explores the construction of personal realities, and I propose that perceived realities are reflections of the often denied subconscious, which is a critical component of reality. In the following sections, I examine Paul Klee's influence on my artwork as I discuss his use of puppets and metaphor. I also explore my use of puppet and shadow symbols as they relate to psychoanalysis as I question the distinctions made between reality and fantasy, which parallels consciousness and subconsciousness.