Shared Identity
Watercolour monoprint, acrylic paint and conté pastel pencils on bristol paper
14½ in x 11½ in
This portrait of my mother constitutes the theme of shared identity; thus, it explores humans' interconnectedness with nature and illustrates how we as humans can discover a part of ourselves in the natural environment. Multiple symbolic elements represent humans’ origin, religious morals, and the meaning of humanity. The background is a watercolour monoprint that has a blended and blurred look suggesting distance, and the figure and birds are painted with acrylic paint, as this medium allowed me to meticulously reproduce details. The application of conté pencils for finishing touches united the piece and enhanced values and saturation.
Furthermore, water, soil and plants symbolize humans’ essence; the birds refer to a Quranic ayat that states that birds’ flight is a sign for those who believe in Allah; and my mothers’ interaction with nature represents the connection between humans, nature and spirituality.
Chosen to be exhibited at the Alberta University of the Arts ShowOff! Competition and Online Exhibition
For my fantasy display, I wish to showcase my artwork in an immersive exhibition, similar to the Immersive Van Gogh Exhibition that was held in Toronto. In this way, the artwork will be shown in a large space, projected on tall screens that line the four walls of the room, as well as the floor, allowing the viewer to observe and be immersed in every aspect of the artwork. Parts of the painting will be separated, repeated and animated, bringing the scene to life and making the natural aspects seem more relatable. When I visited the Immersive Van Gogh Exhibition, I noticed that the background music enhanced the display, and at times, the animation complemented notes and rhythms of the music; thus, I would have nature sounds, such as running water, chirping birds and leaves rustling in the wind, in the background of my display. Therefore, this immersive display will allow viewers to physically experience the theme of a shared identity and observe how they are connected with nature and each other by viewing this intriguing display.
Process of making the piece:
Media Exploration:
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