Blossoming

Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, major depressive disorder and anxiety disorder in spring 2020 while the world was shutting down, Montes taught herself to crochet. “I needed something to do with my hands and a way to move from despair toward creativity. Crochet helps me slow down, breathe, keep my hands busy, and turn anxious energy into something intentional and beautiful.” Blossoming is part of a series of parasols created in 2025 as part of her healing process. Montes describes this work as “Blue Phase yields to Blossoming yields to New Beginnings.” It is inspired by brides who elope to the Rocky Mountains.