This body of work is inspired by two stories, a fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen and a nursery rhyme from an anonymous author in the 18th century. I focused on these stories because the lessons, morals, and emotions are all things in which I personally resonate. I have had certain experiences in my life and though I am not making art specifically about myself, these stories serve as a vehicle to speak about these experiences and emotions without having to bare my soul.

 

The Ugly Duckling tackles the themes surrounding bullying, discrimination, ostracization, loneliness, vulnerability, and the finding of family and/or self. I decided to depict the cygnet, the swan, in scenarios that some of these themes appear in; specifically loneliness, ostracization, found family, and self-reflection. 

 

Humpty Dumpty is four lines of text, but these four lines hold something deeper that I felt should be explored. My interpretation of Humpty Dumpty is manifested in a person who may be going through a turbulent time in their life. “Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall, Humpty Dumpty had a great fall.” We’ve all had our own personal falls and shortcomings. I’ve definitely experienced my own mental breakdowns throughout my childhood and even now as I navigate adulthood. I know what it’s like to feel like you’re drowning inside. Fortunately, I was able to pick myself up and had the support needed, however not everyone has that. Not everyone can make themselves emotionally or mentally available to receive support.

 

In Ugly Duckling, I turned the cygnet into a little girl who looks different from the rest of her peers. Throughout you’ll see her find people who embrace her and her differences, as well as her future self. In Humpty Dumpty, the egg is more of a literary device. Finding themes within the rhyme and pulling Humpty Dumpty into a different type of character resonated more than depicting a personification of an egg.

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Exhibition Website: Flourish 2023