Myself in the Seam
2020
Installation
Dimensions Variable
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, my thesis show is moved to a digital space. These are drawings of what I imagined my show would have looked like if it were a physical show.
My is my thesis work and research explore comfort and discomfort within the home and the family unit from the perspective of an adopted child. I utilize materials such as glass, fabric, and cast metal to discuss the fragility, comfort, and dissonance of my perspective on adoption. Myself in the Seam investigates the tenuous relationship between adoptive and birth parents, their connection to the child, and the influential potential within the nurture versus nature hypothesis. In my thesis, I will be describing my personal history as it relates to the work that I have created during my time in the MFA program.
Myself in the Seam is a conversation about perceptions of family, home, environment, landscapes, and how we emerge as individuals from these influential components. My art gives opportunity for viewers to consider the diversity of family, love, and identity. Voicing my story allows others who share similar experiences to think about their own lives and potentially heal from the pain. Advocacy is not the main goal of my work, however, I believe that by sharing something as personal as my life allows others to see the perspective of another. My work is a cathartic experience to allow for healing and understanding of the complex situation that is adoption. This experience has given me more insight not only within myself, but within others. Getting to know more about my family through this process has been challenging yet rewarding. Moving forward, I plan to continue this conversation through art and writing as it is dear to me. This thesis work is a product of learning to sit within myself and to reflect on my perspective on adoption. In the future, I hope to include others in my research but for now, my own perspective is what I know best and it has been a beautiful experience getting to know it more.