John Locke's theory of tabula rasa, where the mind of a child is a blank slate at birth suggests that the parent must imbue knowledge, notions and specific ideas by easy to read and pleasing books. This idea serves to develop the child's mind rather than force them. Many children's stories were of didactic or moralistic nature; some were rather grim and frightening, others, not so much. For example, the story of Snow White, first published by the Brothers Grimm in 1812, portrayed a mother who was viciously jealous of her daughter and hired a huntsman to bring back her lung and liver (to be later eaten by the Queen). My art's grimness is to portray not the pink cloud, unicorns, and sparkly version of these beloved stories but, are much darker. These images are familiar at first glance and striking in that there is a dark and sometimes sad story. I express these emotions by using chalk or mineral paint, oil pastels, and ink. These materials help illustrate the story, chalk paint dries very muted and dull, almost dreary, and the vibrant colours of oil pastels bring the characters to life. As I am trying to portray a darker version of these classic stories, the inks used (mostly India ink) highlights the creepy vibe I want to express.