The Wall

The idealized life is viewed through rose-colored lenses, pushing aside the skeletons hiding in the closet. Life might first appear bright and happy from a distance but can be covered by layers of invisible pain. I have found through my own struggles and witnessing the suffering of loved ones to embrace all dimensions of life, especially the beautiful and sublime. With this piece, I illustrate my life’s story and familial influences. I express how relational suffering has affected me and how it has formed the person I am today. My piece is reminiscent of urban art practices that combine wheat-pasting, graffiti, and muraling. These techniques tend to be covered up, obstructed, destroyed, and then brought back to life--- a metaphor of my life’s journey. While this story consists of sadness and pain, it is a tale of triumph. I encourage the viewer to feel as though they are not alone and can one day view their suffering as sublime.

Thesis Committee Members:

Professor Jacob Crook, Chair

Professor Caroline Hatfield

Doctor Jenna Altomonte

The Wall

Mixed Media on Hollow Core Doors

Close-ups