Catherine Tew stars as “Alice in Wonderland” in her installation that tells her life story. She intended to bring a sense of calmness to the viewers with her gallery.

Down the Rabbit Hole: A bookcase of “Alice in Wonderland” books that bridges reading and art. Tew’s future students will read a Grimm’s fairy tale and redesign the cover.

Rediscover the Cover: A redesigned book cover of a Grimm’s fairy tale. Features Tew’s childhood friend, who is a bunny.

Deliciously Deadly: Poisonous ceramic mushrooms dressed as tasty treats. Represents tempting life choices that could cause pain and death.

Down the Rabbit Hole: Tew is surrounded by a fantasy of protective mushrooms. She found comfort in Grimm’s fairy tale books during her trauma and abuse.

Terrifyingly Safe: Scary, poisonous-looking ceramic mushrooms that represents taking on scary life choices. Despite the challenge, Tew believed that going to college was a great decision.

Afternoon Tea: Drinking tea is always comforting to Tew. She often sat in the peaceful and quiet woods to drink tea.

Stronger: Catherine Tew has experienced abuse, foster care, and mental health issues in her life. She found purpose and hope by reading Alice in Wonderland books.

Wonder: Using recycled objects from her home, Tew has made a painted sculpture of a mushroom. She featured her favorite blanket with the display.