WHAT'S THE CONCEPT
Beyond the Surface: Assumptions Unveiled
Welcome to "Beyond the Surface: Assumptions Unveiled," a compelling exhibition that invites you to challenge your perceptions and delve deeper into the intricate tapestry of human experience.
This exhibition features a captivating body of work comprising 8 oil paintings. Each piece is a 36 x 48 inch portrait accompanied by an object in a 12 x 12 inch frame, totaling 16 pieces in all. The portraits and objects collectively serve as a powerful commentary on the assumptions we make based on appearances.
The core of this series revolves around the assumptions people form when encountering others. It explores the multifaceted nature of human experiences and how these experiences can lead to a myriad of assumptions, often unfounded.
The portraits in this series celebrate diversity, showcasing individuals from various genders, ages, races, ethnicities, and sexual orientations. To create these compelling artworks, I conducted insightful interviews with each subject, inviting them to share the story behind an object of personal significance. This object was then framed, challenging viewers to match each portrait with its corresponding object.
Engage with the art like never before! Armed with your smartphones, you will scan a QR code that will take you to the “Assumption Challenge” where you will match the object to the portrait. Submit the survey and get the answers in seconds. The results will automatically populate on a spreadsheet which will become part of the art. This interactive component serves to provoke thought, encouraging you to reflect on your own assumptions and how often they can be wrong.
The idea of this series stems from my own encounters with assumptions based on gender and appearance. I aim to shed light on the pervasive nature of assumptions and spark meaningful conversations around this crucial topic.
Above all, "Beyond the Surface: Assumptions Unveiled" is a call to action. It challenges us to approach others with empathy and understanding, urging us to look beyond appearances and embrace the complexity of human identity. This show is about seeing that we are not confined to a mold of what society thinks we fit into, but rather that we are unique individuals.
OBJECT NARRATIVES
Each person featured in the show selected an object that holds special significance or represents an aspect of their identity. Here, you will find the statements they provided, sharing the personal reasons and stories behind their choices, offering a deeper insight into their lives and the meaningful connections they have with these objects.
"My Cinderella watch holds special meaning to me. It was given to my mom by her mom. When I was younger, I loved it and wanted to wear it all the time. My mom wouldn't let me wear it though because she thought I would break it."
"The diversity flag holds profound significance for me as an individual in an interracial relationship with mixed-race children. It symbolizes the challenges I've faced due to discrimination. My commitment to addressing these issues is evident through my active involvement in committees that work towards promoting equality within our community."
"“The stuffed bunny I received on my 1st birthday holds different meanings to me and it gives me comfort. For years, I’ve felt that rabbits, like us, are fluid beings, existing beyond the confines of labels. Gender, to me, is simply energy, and we all move through varying balances of masculine and feminine. I’ve always known gender was fluid but never had the words. I still don’t quite fit into the gender narrative neatly and I am ok with that. What I go by is energy. I’m constantly checking in to see where my masculine and feminine energies are. Are they balanced or am I leaning more towards one than the other? What do I need in this moment to feel fully myself? Because after all, at the end of the day, it is only about the energy we put out that matters most.”
"The teacup represents my 'me time' in the morning, a precious moment of relaxation after dropping my kids off at school. Additionally, it holds a connection to my Canadian heritage, as both my mom and grandma have cherished the tradition of tea time in the afternoon."
"The pocketknife is my signature. It is who I am, the toolman, Mr. Fix it, the jack of all trades."
"The globe, to me, symbolizes the significance of travel and exploration. Whether it's within the familiar streets of my hometown or across distant lands, the act of visiting new places, meeting new people, and trying new things has always been crucial to my personal growth, making life consistently interesting. This love for exploration took on a romantic turn when I got engaged to my now husband in the enchanting landscapes of Canada. The combination of the globe and Claddagh ring in my life summarizes the love, shared values, and adventures that have shaped who I am today."
"The Japanese flag represents my love for history and Asian culture. I have traveled to Japan and love the feel of Tokyo. I would love to live in Japan one day."
"The spider holds special meaning to me, it symbolizes my love for Spider-Man comic books and my cherished childhood fable about Anansi the spider. The love I have for Spider-Man comics has become a special connection between me and my grandchildren."