'As an artist, I believe that women contain in them universes of stories. I grew up in the Philippines, which has one of the highest rates of teen pregnancies in Asia.  I saw how young women who went from having limited choices to even more limited ones.  As I write this, the pandemic has brought more work upon women when it comes to childcare, housework, among other things, highlighting the inequalities we have already been facing even before COVID-19. But all women have the right to reach their potential and be self-actualised, and I want all of us to grow into the best versions of ourselves.  I acknowledge the privilege I have had, from my childhood to my education to the many opportunities given to me in order to achieve my dreams. To be self-actualised, to have a fulfilling career, and to see the world means I can be my best self in all my relationships. If I do choose to have children in the future, I want to empower them with the skills I have learned in realising the importance of standing up for myself and reaching my potential.'

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Check out some of Catherine's beautiful work at the Sydney Observatory Residency Program here.