IBDP VISUAL ARTS EXHIBITION
2026
5 MARCH 2026
5:00-8:00 PM
UPPER SCHOOL AULA MAGNA
Bruno Ballarini
Giovanni Colzi Bini
Meli Lewis
Giulia Lin
Isabella M.
Soheila Rastegar-Nahvi
Sophie von Bismarck
Angelina Wang
Vivian Xu
BRUNO BALLARINI
In this exhibition, my artworks center around aspects of mental health, with stress being the most common theme I believe this theme has a universal connection, since stress can relate to everyone regardless of who they are or what they do. The concept of stress has a personal connection in relation to my IB studies. When I began the IB program, I was anxious in a lot of my classes, and in Visual Arts, I began to create artworks that represented the idea of stress, often in a humorous way The inclusion of humor was especially important, as I found that satirizing stress helped me to cope with it better
My artworks have several influences from different artists and art genres. As to stylistic inspirations, my Echo Chamber piece was influenced by the Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama and her infinity mirror rooms Other inspirations include New Yorker cartoons, particularly within Lack of Balance, and my rocket artwork, How Time Flies, being based on something seen in a dream Color was important in my works, and my use of color was based on color theory research I had done for my Extended Essay I chose to use varying color schemes, such as the use of a cool blue light in Overloaded, and using primary colors in Lack of Balance to show the origins of stress I also enjoyed combining different mediums, such as clay, plastic and mirrors in Echo Chamber
You may notice that the biggest and most eye-catching piece in my exhibition is Lack of Balance I deliberately chose to make this artwork the forefront of my display in order to set the tone of the exhibition This piece represents how much I strugglwed to balance my school responsibilities and personal life during my first year in the IB The exhibition continues to show different portrayals of stress with different mediums I also organized my works so that one can clearly see the exploration of my creativity and desire to experiment with new mediums in Visual Arts
LACK OF BALANCE
Gouache, watercolor and permanent marker on paper
59 x 42 cm
For this artwork, my biggest goal was to convey the themes of stress, feeling overworked, and stretching yourself too thinly, as shown by the person in the artwork trying to do 3 things while standing on one leg The reason I chose to do it in a cartoony style is because I remembered analyzing lots of political cartoons the year before, and I thought that it would be interesting to convey this theme in the style of a political cartoon, as a means of satirizing it I also wanted to make the artwork really big so that the theme would be very overwhelming for the viewer
OVERLOADED
Digital Photography
3104 x 2089 (23 x 32 cm)
For this photograph, I wanted to portray the theme of being overworked and tired, and since my father has a job involving lots of deadlines, I thought he would make a good subject for this The lighting played a significant role in showing my theme, since I used the laptop and the digital clock as the photo’s only sources of light When editing the photograph, I further emphasized that theme by giving it a cool temperature, which sapped the color from the image and added to my theme even more
HOW TIME FLIES
Plastic and acrylic paint
20 x 24 x 14 cm
This idea came to me in a dream, where I saw a rocket clock like the one represented in this artwork The orange bar above the clock was an L E D bar, which glowed from left to right until the whole bar was lit up After that, the rocket made a sound like an old alarm clock and took off into space I designed what I saw in Blender, and thought this idea could relate to stress-oriented dreams, the dread of waking up to an alarm, and how time seems to speed up when we are in stressful situations
ECHO CHAMBER
Plastic, mirror stickers, clay, electric lights, found objects, watercolor and pencil on paper
32 x 32 x 32 cm
This artwork was inspired by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama’s infinity mirror rooms, as they share similar visual and artistic themes I decided to theme this piece on recurring worries and how stress can be amplified by factors like social media and the news To do this, I used a box, covering the inside with mirror stickers I made signs depicting stressful things, with a clay brain in the center The hardened clay of the brain also shows how stress can hardwire our minds to be more stressed
(Look through the hole in the side of the box to see the infinity mirror room)
THE PROCRASTINATOR
Digital Film
3 minutes 21 seconds
For this silent film, I wanted to convey the idea of how procrastination can cause stress while working I also chose to address what I see as a major cause of procrastination, that being technological distractions such as videogames Additionally, to show the Procrastinator’s situation getting worse, I had the color gradually leech out of the film until it became fully black and white The heart rate monitor also shows the idea of stress with how it goes up due to the Procrastinator’s actions
WATCH HERE!
ECHO CHAMBER OVERLOADED
GIOVANNI COLZI BINI
My exhibition explores the idea of observation and the importance of paying attention to the details that are often overlooked in everyday life The works presented focus on the art of noticing: looking closely, slowing down, and finding meaning in things that may seem normal at first glance Through this exhibition, I wanted to highlight how much of our surroundings we tend to ignore simply because we see them every day. By drawing attention to small details, my artworks encourage viewers to reflect on how observation can change the way we experience our surroundings
My interest in this theme comes from a fascination with hyperrealistic artworks, especially those inspired by nature Works in this style have always captured my attention because of the level of care and patience involved in reproducing the small details. While I didn't aim to create fully hyperrealistic artwork, this interest influenced my approach to making art Instead of copying images directly, I worked on turning observation into my own visual style In this way, I explored realism and detail, while remaining connected to what initially inspired me
The intention behind this exhibition is to remind viewers that even the most familiar objects, textures, or scenes can be visually and conceptually interesting if we take the time to observe them properly I want the audience to become more aware of the details that make up their daily lives and to reconsider things that are usually ignored My artworks aim to make the viewer reflect and encourage them to slow down, look closely, and question what they may be overlooking in their own routines
This exhibition includes a selection of paintings, photographs, and mixed media works I worked with a range of materials, including acrylic paint, watercolor, oil paint, photography, collage elements, and printmaking processes This variety helped me approach the same idea in different ways and avoid repeating Although the works differ in medium and appearance, they are connected through their focus on observation and detail
Painting is a key role in my exhibition, especially the use of oil paint Oil paint allowed me to work with precision while also layering and adjusting details efficiently This material supported my interest in observation, as it helped me refine small things within each composition
Oil also made blending, cohesion, and unity easier to reproduce because of its ability not to dry so fast Other media, like photography and collage, introduced different ways of presenting details Photography allowed me to freeze moments that would usually go unnoticed or pass quickly, and the editing process helped emphasize those moments, while collage and mixed media helped me highlight contrasts between what is seen and what is usually ignored, which directly links to the contrast in mediums within the work
The artworks I selected for my exhibition were chosen because they best communicate the main idea of noticing and observation While I made many works during the course, these pieces stood out as the most successful in expressing the theme in varied ways. Together, they showed different interpretations of the same concept without being repetitive Each work encourages the viewer to engage with the theme through different approaches
The arrangement of my exhibition follows a clear progression from natural observation to human intervention and manipulation. Using one wall and two panels, the exhibition begins with the photography collection Frozen Moments, which presents moments of life directly and calmly These are arranged in a unified composition at eye level to create a cohesive starting point Moving along the wall, the viewer encounters Textured Sea and Postcard Memory, where technique and memory begin to shape observation The corner panel marks a shift in the exhibition Here, Same, Different is displayed in a grid formation, referencing repetition and variation This structured layout contrasts with the more expressive Through the Lens and Intervention that follow. Reassembled and Trace are placed at eye level to encourage close viewing, reinforcing the importance of detail The exhibition concludes with Form, positioned slightly apart to create a reflective ending Through this arrangement, I aim to slow the viewer down and create a gradual change from passive looking to active noticing, connecting back to the central theme of observation
FROZEN MOMENTS
POSTCARD MEMORY
Acrylic paint on canvas
30 x 25 cm
This acrylic painting captures a small snapshot of the Ponte Vecchio in Florence, focusing on a quiet section rather than the whole bridge By isolating this section, I highlight the importance of noticing simple, calm moments that may go unnoticed I used soft colours and warm sunset tones, such as pink, yellow, and orange, to create a peaceful atmosphere that reflects the personal sense of calm this place gives me and invites viewers to slow down and take in the surroundings
INTERVENTION
Acrylic, crayons on digitally printed photograph on canvas
50 x 70 cm
These two paintings combine printed photographs of a sunset and moon with painted elements inspired by Basquiat’s expressive symbols The image represents clarity and balance, while the painted half shows human interference The painted side slightly overlaps the image, representing the growth of human intervention By replacing organic forms with consumer symbols, I suggest how nature is altered The title reflects my direct action on the image, showing the impact of humans on the world
POSTCARD MEMORY
LENS
TEXTURED SEA SAME, DIFFERENT
REASSEMBLED
Digital drawing on fine art print
40 x 57 cm
Based on a photo of my cat, this digital artwork contrasts reality and reinterpretation I kept the left half untouched to show his natural, peaceful presence, adding hand-drawn elements of nature to emphasize his real world On the right, I recreated him using colored dots and referenced Haring and Basquiat through graphic symbols This split reflects how familiar subjects can be seen through both observation and imagination, making sure to put emphasis on small details
FROZEN MOMENTS
Photography
5712 x 4284 px (Printed 16 x 25 cm); 1536 x 1024 px (Printed 16 x 25 cm); 4032 x 3024 px (Printed 16 x 25 cm); 4284 x 5486 px (Printed 25 x 16 cm); 1179 x 2037 px (Printed 25 x 16 cm)
This series captures brief moments that often go unnoticed lLight through trees, planes crossing the sky, patterned clouds, a quiet garden scene, and a gathering around a fire all exist for only a short time Through editing and framing, I emphasized these details to slow them down By freezing these scenes, I want the viewer to look more carefully and reflect on the beauty found in everyday, fleeting experiences
TEXTURED SEA
Oil paint on canvas
30 x 23 cm
This painting shows the sea at sunset, a place that is personal and meaningful to me Instead of using a traditional brush technique, I applied oil paint with a palette knife, pressing and lifting it to build thick layers The texture becomes the main focus, inviting the viewer to look more closely The title Textured Sea highlights this technique and reminds the viewer that detail can be experienced not only through image, but also through surface
SAME, DIFFERENT
Linoleum printing on recycled paper
84 x 60 cm
This work presents nine leaf prints made on different recycled papers using ink and linoleum Nature is central, hence the recycling The movemented background and slight distortion of the prints echo the motion of the leaves in the wind Although each print comes from the same source, the result changes depending on the surface and material Inspired by Andy Warhol, I added variation to reflect nature's imperfection The title Same, Different highlights how things can be identical, yet unique
THROUGH THE LENS
Acrylic paint and collaged paper on canvas
40 x 51 cm
This painting shows New York through a single glasses lens At the center stands the Empire State Building, surrounded by a collage of smaller images from the city This contrasts the large, iconic symbol with the many small details that create its beauty I wanted the viewer to feel as if they were wearing glasses, inviting them to look closer The glasses are used as a metaphor for clarity Through the Lens reflects the idea of seeing beyond the surface and noticing what is often overlooked
TRACE
Oil paint on canvas
40 x 60 cm
This painting enlarges a small everyday object: an espresso mug with a lipstick mark left behind By placing the mug at a large scale, I draw attention to a detail that would normally go unnoticed The trace suggests presence, routine, and human connection within everyday moments The title Trace refers to this subtle imprint, reminding the viewer that even the smallest marks can carry meaning
FORM
Powdered pigment and watercolor on cotton paper
36 x 26 cm
This work shows the back of a very thin woman, created with black powdered pigment pressed on cotton paper for its soft texture to reflect fragility Her bones are visible, emphasizing her unique physical form I wanted to draw attention to how everybody is different and how details shape identity The soft blue watercolor background contrasts with her fragile figure The hair tie is created with gold leaf toad a spark of life, symbolizing strength and presence within vulnerability
REASSEMBLED
MELI LEWIS
In this exhibition I explore the idea of my personal identity and who I will become Focusing on the aspects of my life that have formed me and continue to influence how I develop as a person Each piece touches on stages of my growth, portraying an emotional perspective on my fears for the future, changing environments, and my childhood experience. This allows me to connect with the audience by letting them connect with me through intimate and somewhat unusual roots By choosing to center my exhibition around this theme I aim to inspire my audience to reflect on who they are, what are the aspects that form them and who they will be in the future A question I ask myself often
The central theme of my exhibition is to examine my life in phases around what has formed me into who I am today and who I will be in the future. Through each piece I examine different aspects of this, ranging from the physical environment I grew up in, to undiscovered chapters of my life where I can only make assumptions about what they will be like By portraying these elements throughout my works I aim to transport the audience the subtleties of who I am and how I see the world, particularly my fears of the chaos of becoming an adult, and the bittersweet leaving of my childhood home But most importantly, I intend for the viewer to reflect on their experiences, and what they are curious, scared or even excited about for the next phases of their lives
During my creative process, I relied on inspiration from several artists and was influenced by several artists for my creative process in terms of materials and style At first, I explored artists like Vittorio Marella, Mary Pratt and began my interest in realistic and perfectly toned pieces. Over time this evolved into me finding my own style and form of expression Later on, I developed my love for oil paint and photography by experimenting with different techniques Even though my style changes from painting to painting, this is done with the intention of guiding the viewer through how even when using the same media I am able to explore technique depending on what I want to portray
I chose to include these particular works because they demonstrate a dialogue between my younger self, my present self, and who I wonder I will be in the future The range of media and styles from collage, oil painted landscapes and more abstract all contribute to portraying the audience into states of mind and the emotions behind each piece
For example, Stirring evokes a sense of movement and lightness within a limitless pond, connecting to my early years as a child And on the other hand, È quasi notte, ma io sarò sempre con voi relates to how I imagine adulthood, and the chaos that I feel navigating the complex world of responsibility
I decided to organize my works in the chronological order of their meaning, beginning with my interpretation of early childhood I positioned Stirring at the beginning in order to allow the audience a slow immersion into my identity and my perspective about my world Additionally, the contrast between the style in Safety in growth compared with the style of my collage pieces is meant to represent the simplicity of youth versus the chaos of growing up These elements work together to evoke contemplation and reflection within my audience of their lives and journeys.
I hope that the audience will leave my exhibition with a sense of wanting to look into the subtle details of what makes up the people around them, from where they grew up to where they might go In a way this is partly about me showing who I am, but also about making people question who they are and examine their own phases of who they are or changes they are going through And hopefully prompt them to value the beautiful things that surround them even in difficult times. This process taught me the importance of looking at what I do with different perspectives, and thinking outside of the box for what I wanted to communicate But overall I have understood how art is a constant back and forth of not only creating a space for an audience but also paying attention to perception and flow
WITH THE TIDE
Mixed media collage (printed photographs, ticket stubs, sugar packets, bills, postcards) on two circular canvases
20 cm diameter
Through this piece, I am to portray my life in Italy through a collage of items I've collected since I arrived three years ago My use of transport tickets, money, sugar packets among other things each hold a very symbolic meaning I aim to connect the audience with details of how my life has been here, trips taken, places discovered, friends made and much more These have been essential parts in forming my experience in this environment I aim to communicate to the audience clues of what I have been up to
STIRRING
Oil on canvas
50 x 40 cm
This piece represents the movement of change through life Moments in life tend to take different forms for different people, but in general we all go through similar experiences at different times The choice of using a blue and white background peppered with yellow streaks stems from the primary colors, the simple three that lead to every other color and promote their movement through the wheel The disorganized brush strokes and koi fish are all different stages of motion, but it is up to the observer to correlate this with moments in their life
THE WAY THINGS GO
Mixed media (magazine cutouts and book pages) and oil paint on paper
60 x 32 cm
For this collage piece I used my current chapter of life as the focus I am in a transition between being a kid and being an adult, in which many aspects like love, work and study are becoming much more real I used the collage format to blend my message to represent what I perceive as the chaos of adulthood, mixing paint to fill in gaps or empty spaces to portray the absence of the inner child This piece is an overall representation in my perspective of growing up, and how I see the mix of responsibilities I am now facing
CONSTANCIA
Oil on canvas
50 x 60 cm
Through this piece I aimed to examine the aspects that stay constant within a person as they grow Some say the eyes are the portal to the soul, communicating more than what a person is able to say in words I was inspired by the way that even with age, a person ’ s eyes will remain physically the same, portraying a story This piece reflects my exploration of my identity, confronting the question: Who am I? Who will I be? I know that my eyes will be witnesses to every change and chapter of my evolution
WITH THE TIDE
Oil on canvas
23 x 30 cm
This piece depicts the view from my childhood home The thick and textured brushstrokes show the melancholic feeling of physically leaving a place while still being connected to it The use of the setting sun shows a journey into the unknown and self discovery while still knowing that eventually there will come the brightness of day This specific area of the beach is where I looked for seashells when the tides were low My intention behind picturing the high tide is to portray the way I've grown up emotionally, with the curious ocean floor being the metaphorical framework to my inner child
FUEL
Oil on canvas
12 5 x 18 cm
The underlying concept of this work is my connection to food ever since I was young This has followed me my entire life, connecting my experiences though tastes and the flavors of the ocean These are all molluscs and sea animals from Chilean waters, species which have fed the bays for centuries For me, this aligns closely with the concept of how every little thing adds to a bigger picture, and I carry the nutrients and vitality of these little creatures with me in my foundation and in my memories
SAFETY IN GROWTH
Oil on canvas
30 x 23 cm
Apart from our parents and the people around us, there is an environment and nature that forms us This piece explores the Chiloe forest is where I was raised: it is a place that has nurtured me and been witness to my growth and mistakes, and it has taught me resilience in individuality I aimed to portray it as a simple but eternal space, in which one can get lost in mother nature’s care The use of oil on canvas allowed me to portray its unique shapes and hues, emphasizing the uniqueness of the forest
UNTITLED
Cyanotype on paper
29 7 x 42 0cm
In this body of work I used self portraits as a means of questioning identity while at the same time portraying it By using myself as the subject I aimed to portray the self as nothing but the physical casing that holds so much, the face after all, is only a show of what is on the outside yet it communicates so much The repetition of my own image suggests identity as something that is continuously changing and redefined by oneself; that suggests identity is never constant or hidden by physical appearances
CONSTANCIA
È QUASI NOTTE, MA IO SARÒ SEMPRE CON VOI FUEL
SAFETY IN GROWTH
THE WAY THINGS GO
STIRRING
GIULIA LIN
This exhibition is entitled Gritting Towards the Sun I will explore how life seeks light in adversity, grows in frustration, and becomes more resilient Whether human beings are facing the pressure of study/work or the cruelty of nature, they all hope to always face hope I chose these artworks to respond to my theme in different dimensions of nature, life, individuals and cities. The connection between them lies in how to break this predicament and show the upward power of life when facing difficulties In this process, I encountered how to express this intention unobtrusively and connect all the works together to have a complete story
In this exhibition, I will take the stage as a story that progresses from "nature and life" to "individual and city," and ends with "nature and individual." In this way, the works can successively present the phototropic instinct of nature, the inner strength of life, and the awakening of individuals In the curatorial process, I explored the concepts of resilience, growth, predicament, and hope, and thought about the instinct of life in adversity and the persistence of individuals under pressure These explorations are closely linked with the works, forming a complete narrative with a closed loop When choosing the theme, I thought about my own situation, which can express the tenacity of life. For example, I have a positive and upward force, even if there is something unbearable in the past
This series of works takes quartz sand, acrylic paint, oil paint, and rope as the core creative materials, combining two-dimensional painting and three-dimensional installation to express the internal state of restraint, struggle, and pursuit of freedom. Acrylic paint and oil paint jointly construct the color and light and shadow atmosphere of the picture: acrylic paint presents a bright and direct emotional expression, while oil paint creates a soft and layered color transition, bringing a rich visual rhythm to the work
Quartz sand is mixed with pigments to create a rough and tactile texture, enhancing the sense of real adversity in the work and making the inner experience of the work visible and tangible The most symbolic material is the rope, which is fully displayed in the eagle's installation work: the rope is firmly fixed on the eagle's claws, extends downward and coils into a ball The eagle symbolizes freedom and strength, while the falling and winding rope represents invisible pressure, real constraints, and unspeakable restrictions Through the collision and fusion of these materials, this series of works conveys a kind of spiritual power
that is bound but still strives to break free, showing the never-give-up pursuit and strong vitality between reality and ideal.
The works are supposed to hang on the wall from left to right in the sequence of nature, life, individual and city, presenting the theme of "growing towards the sun " in a progressive manner However, to create dynamism in vision and narrative, a 2 by 2 arrangement is chosen for the first four works The audience viewing the first four works will determine the sequence in which they view them Because the works convey similar ideas, the audience will have a meshed impression of life's different responses to adversity in nature. And this impression of tangle will be resolved with the last four works arranged linearly This arrangement should give the audience an impression of, " a way out of a mesh," which is also the theme of the last four works
A GIRL RUSHING TOWARDS THE SUNLIGHT
A SUNFLOWER
Acrylic paint on canvas, quartz sand
25 4 x 30 4 cm
The work uses abstract color gradients to depict the essence of sunflower life The background, with its natural gradient of black and a touch of yellow, shows the sunflower slowly withering in an unfriendly environment Even when in adversity and vitality is fading, the stem of the sunflower still bends slightly, stubbornly facing the faint light that pierces the darkness, symbolizing the natural instinct of life to seek light and hold on to hope in adversity
FLOWERS IN THE CREVICES
Acrylic paint on canvas
20 x 25 cm
The wall in the painting has some cracks, and several flowers bloom in the middle of these cracks, which means the challenges and adversities we encounter in life The beautiful flowers breaking through the soil from the difficult environment symbolize hope, perseverance, and ultimate success
BEARS IN HIBERNATION
Acrylic paint on canvas
24 x 30 cm
When the environment becomes too unfriendly, bears hibernate to get through the harsh winter I try to capture the innocence in it with my use of white space While the work reflects peace in adversities, it also implies great potentials when warm seasons finally come with more sunlight
AN EAGLE TRAPPED BY ROPES
Rope, acrylic paint on canvas
12 5 x 17 5 cm
This work depicts an eagle trapped by ropes The eagle symbolizes freedom and rights, and its state of being bound metaphorically represents the various pressures faced by humans in real life The rope tightly wrapped around its claws, but the wings remained open This proves that even when bound by invisible forces, the desire to soar freely is still there
UNTITLED
Acrylic paint on canvas, Quartz sand
25 4 x 30 4 cm
With the glowing rays of the sun that is not yet fully above the horizon, the sky at the top remains dark and the ground at the bottom is not illuminated The silhouette of the urban skyline is in complete darkness, which suggests cities' great suppression of human endeavour
A GIRL INSIDE THE HOUSE
Oil paint on canvas
24 x 30 cm
A girl is studying in bed, surrounded by a messy room with scratched floors and terrible weather outside But a faint, broken light shines on her, contrasting adversity with hope, showcasing her diligent study and her desire to escape her chaotic home and have a better life
LIGHT AND SHADOW IN A CORRIDOR
Digital photo (Print on canvas)
3024 x 4032 (24 x 30 cm)
The photo captures a corridor that appears to be a dead end The sense of closure of the building is broken by a stubborn beam of light The strong contrast between light and dark not only frames the physical space, but also becomes the core metaphor of the human situation The "dead end" symbolizes adversity, while the broken but determined light represents hope It guides the way in the shadow and shows that "towards the sun " is finding direction in the darkness
A GIRL RUSHING TOWARDS THE SUNLIGHT
Oil paint on canvas
25 4 x 30 4 cm
This oil painting depicts a little girl running towards the sunlight, symbolizing hope Surrounding her are many buildings, all in a somber gray, creating a striking contrast This highlights the girl's desire to live a beautiful life under the sun
BEARS IN HIBERNATION
FLOWERS IN THE CREVICES
AN EAGLE TRAPPED BY ROPES
A GIRL INSIDE THE HOUSE
LIGHT AND SHADOW IN A CORRIDOR
ISABELLA M.
My exhibition explores themes of identity focusing on the idea that identity is layered, evolving, and cumulative, but yet, rooted in constants I am of Chinese and Italian descent and my childhood has been between coastal Connecticut and the stunning, proudly anachronistic museum that is Florence, Italy Our family values mix and re-mix Chinese, American and Italian points of view, cultures, traditions and flavors.
I work mainly with mixed media, photography, collage, and printmaking because these media allow for layering, fragmentation, and the combining and contrasting of elements This mirrors my understanding of how identities are formed through memories, experiences, and influences Mixed media allows me to combine intuitive and emotional elements with more structured, graphic components, which allow my personal and cultural narratives to coexist within my pieces.
Much of my work is focused on memory and inner identity One piece connects my younger self to my inner femininity through the use of warm, nostalgic colors and was specifically influenced by Mark Rothko, Paul Klee, and Mary Cassatt, exploring abstraction and intimacy through color and form Another mixed media piece using watercolor explores my spirituality and belief in the universe and karma. The soft washes and small white stars symbolize the interconnectedness of everything and my belief that unseen entities influence human experience
My cultural identity is expressed directly through a mixed media collage, where I have written my Chinese name in traditional characters. This work combines both digital and physical processes, where I began with digital mockups and progressed to a handmade paper collage The bold colors in this piece reference the national flags connected to my heritage and ancestry, meanwhile the pop art-inspired aesthetic reflects my love of contemporary art Layering and assembling these elements mirrors my experience with my cultural hybridity, showing how my multiple ‘identities’ coincide rather than compete
Everyday objects and domestic spaces are also important to my identity and themes within my work. A documentary photographic piece is an exploration of identity through food, showcasing a combination of Chinese, American, and Italian staples from my third-culture household pantry
This work grounds my exploration of identity in lived experiences, allowing viewers to relate to perhaps familiar objects while recognizing how culture is expressed through everyday objects and daily choices.
Place and ancestry are also very important to my exhibition My linoleum print is inspired by one of my favourite patterns of Florence’s Baptistery and references my Italian heritage and my family’s historical connection to the city The repetitive geometric pattern symbolises how traditions develop over time and form inherited identities Similarly, a photographic series of archways and doors act as symbolic ’portals’ reflecting my perception of Italy as a magical place where time is suspended.
Words also represent my family and upbringing A mixed media piece featuring the word “BEST” mixes visual and conceptual ideas, representing family values that have shaped who I am, particularly through the motto: “Always try your best ” The use of typography also reflects my personal interest in visual communication and branding, where language, color, and composition intersect to create meaning and identity Extending this exploration of personal identity, a collection titled “Bound by Shells” contains selected objects representing my memories and experiences that shaped my formative years
My mixed media approach has been influenced by growing up in a highly creative environment shaped by design, fashion, architecture, and contemporary art which has refined my sensitivity to aesthetics, details, and composition While my final works are physical, they all incorporate digital experimentation during their planning and development stages
My intention is to encourage viewers to think about their own identity and experiences relating to belonging, change, and becoming The layering in my work invites viewers to move between different materials, meanings, and ideas, reflecting how identity is formed through many experiences all at once. My exhibition is designed to act like an emotional and intuitive journey through culture, place, memory, and beliefs Overall, my work aims to present identity as something that is in a continual state of change, shaped by its environment, movement, and experience
HERITAGE
NOSTALGIA
Mixed Media: watercolor and collage
13 x 17 cm
This work is a connection to little me, on a trip to Cape Cod, in my favorite one-piece and sun hat The colors are warm, sunny, and muted, like a memory The rose on a grid is a reference to my femininity It is a filet crochet pattern that recalls the ones my Nonna used to use, and had hanging in all her windows It is a look backward through the curtain of the past I chose to use mixed media as a means to experiment with expression, ideas and conceptual layers
SOM-YEE
Watercolor and collage
21 x 29 7 cm
This work is a depiction of my Chinese name given to me at birth by my maternal grandmother I asked her to write my name in Chinese calligraphy, and I used that as a basis for the forms, cutting and painting the characters, then assembling it into a layered, dimensional presentation The colors recall the flags of the countries of my ethnicity and culture I also chose cut paper as a nod to this Chinese tradition
THE UNIVERSE
Watercolor and collage
25 3 x 30 6 cm
I am not religious, but I am very spiritual, and I believe in the universe There is an Albert Einstein quote that I love that basically says you can live as if nothing is a miracle or as if everything is I am one of those people who lives as if everything is a miracle I embrace the wonder, the awe and the mystery of our existence This work is my depiction of the universe It is a little like the night, abstract and mysterious, full of secrets and sparkle if you are looking
PORTALS
Photography printed on semi-gloss paper
1 2756 × 3814 px | 2 4284 × 5712 px | 3 4284 × 5712 px | 4 3024 × 4032 px | 5 4198 × 5712 px | All printed at 21 x 29 7 cm
These photographs showcase Florentine arches or “portals” that are in locations of personal significance I imagine that there are certain hotspots of magic throughout the world and that Florence is one of them Perhaps it is all the beautiful buildings and sculptures everywhere, or because so much artistic genius flowed through the same streets we walk through today It is kind of like a time machine to the Renaissance, and sometimes I imagine they are time machines for real
YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT
Photograph printed on gloss paper
740 × 984 px (Printed at 29 7 x 42 cm)
This photograph depicts a selection of items from my third culture pantry I think food is one of the best ways to experience culture, and I miss the flavors of America, of my grandma’s table, of Thai takeout and my favorite Japanese market back home But I also love all the Italian stuff, too much to fit in one image! I chose photography as a medium because of its documentary quality and arranged this still life to illustrate how cultural hybridity is a part of my everyday life
ALWAYS DO YOUR BEST
Airbrush with markers
29 7 x 42 3 cm
This piece is inspired by a family motto: “Always do your best ” My best is my personal expectation for myself, and has shaped me and my values I created this work by mixing digital and hand-drawn letters based on a serif font, then cutting them out of paper, and using an airbrush on the resulting stencil The letters have a gothic, serpentine vibe, and the color glows like an ember Intentionally wonky, it is an ironic piece about how achieving “best” is an organic, imperfect process
HERITAGE
Linoleum print and ink on paper
21 2 x 14 4 cm
This work is a linoleum print inspired by a floor pattern at the Baptistery in Florence I draw a lot of inspiration from Florence because it is so rich in beauty and history, but also because my father is Florentine, in fact, we can trace our lineage back to the Renaissance I started working first with styrofoam, then to linoleum for a sharper print Printmaking has long been an interest of mine, and I love that the floor patterns are both ancient and contemporary
BOUND BY SHELLS
Curated collection of items in a glass vase
14 x 14 5 cm
This piece is a curated collection of items that reflect how everyday moments come together to form different aspects of my interests Museum tickets, fashion items, a restaurant card, and handmade stars symbolize my creativity, curiosity, femininity, and ability to see beauty in the mundane The small dried flowers echo this idea also as a connection to the cycle of life and to nature The shells represent protection and growth, a metaphor about how memory and transformation shape who I am
PORTALS
NOSTALGIA
BOUND BY SHELLS
SOHEILA RASTEGAR-NAHVI
My exhibition follows the theme of Blue, a concept which reflects both the literal blues which I observe around me and the figurative conception of “the blues” In my comparative study, I was inspired by three works done by Edward Hopper, Girolamo Romanino and Bernice Bing, all of which uniquely utilized the color blue Blue has allowed me to explore my personal identity in that the theme is broadly an analysis of my internal versus my external perception of the world I aimed to reflect how internal blues, such as struggles with war and identity, are reflected in the external blues of the world. I thus maintained this theme both by literally using blue and by approaching blue as a concept I chose to pursue this topic after considering my Bearing Witness project in Istanbul, in which I was inspired to create work after witnessing the beauty of the blues of the city I drew more technical inspiration from Weejee’s photojournalism
Though my plans for the exhibition originated from a simple appreciation of the color blue and its melancholy connotations, the broader conceptual significance was only truly solidified when I began to explore less conventional mediums Specifically, realizing that I wanted to do a carving work, a piece which utilized no blues but instead took on the physical shape of a droplet of water, challenged me to preserve the theme in a less overt manner This piece prompted me to explore Blue as an entry point into considering the juxtaposition of legacy and impermanence in times of political uncertainty in Iran. From there, I realized I wanted each piece of work in my exhibition to serve as a portrait of a certain family member The photographs were literal portraits of my grandfather, the carving a portrait of my great-grandmothers’ marriage, and I subsequently began pencil drawings of old family photographs
Each of my pieces aims to evoke feelings of nostalgia, echoing certain members of my family Together, they construct somewhat of a memorial or a family tree. The merging of multiple different forms of media and art highlights the complexity and variability of the modern family Importantly, my use of both traditional farsi calligraphy and modern art forms in the same exhibition, sometimes in the same piece, displays the merging of the past and the present, and the remnants of history for immigrant families
ISTANBUL, 2025
Photography
1361 x 946; 1317 x 927; 1066 x 1600 pixels (all printed 21 x 29 7 cm each)
I took these photographs of my grandfather at our family reunion this past summer I have spent a lot of my childhood looking back at old photographs of my grandfather in Iran, and these, in Istanbul, are the closest I could get to recreating them I was inspired by the blue of the city, and the way that light touched my grandfather’s hair and hands
RAINY DAY
Wood and Acrylic
20 x 30 cm
In this piece, I carved the full name of my great grandfather and inside inscribed the first name of my great grandmother, in Persian calligraphy The droplet theme follows the exhibition framework of “blue” and highlights the merging of two families: the same way one raindrop absorbs another, the husband absorbs the wife upon marriage (at least in a traditional sense)
JUST MARRIED
Cyanotype
Dimensions
With this piece, I created a layered cyanotype of my grandparent’s marriage photo and a handwritten announcement/poem about their love Here, I aimed to emphasize the fact that their marriage, unique for the time and the culture, was a coincidental love marriage and not arranged The color highlights the melancholy undertones of this truth: while they were happy, many others were and are not
PORTRAITURE
Pencil and Sharpie
10 5 x 13 5 and 11 2 x 8 9 cm
In this piece, I aimed to juxtapose permanence and impermanence I developed a stark contrast between the permanent: the strong, definite, and seemingly eternal blue, and the impermanent: the erasable pencil sketches of family members at different stages of life
PORTRAITURE
RAINY DAY
SOPHIE VON BISMARCK
My artworks are inspired by the phase in life when one is growing out of childhood and into a young adult, as it is something that we all eventually experience at one point in our lives This exhibition aims to explore the emotions behind these experiences, based on my personal development stages One might be excited or intimidated by the fact that we will all grow to be adults, as this means that not only do we grow in age but also in responsibility My art is intended to be relatable and comforting to the audience, which is shown through my personal path from my childhood and how I developed over time as I became older
During my creative process while coming up with ideas and making art, I looked back upon old memories which brought me back and helped me to connect with my inner child, and aided me throughout my creative process. To gather inspiration, I looked through old pictures and videos which helped me jump back in time to create art using the imagination from my younger self alongside the beliefs and experiences that I have gathered over the years I have always been fascinated by the concept of how the past influences our future and how this shapes us as individuals This topic raised various questions within me, such as “how much in control are we really when it comes to our past, present and mostly our future?” or “at what age are we truly aware of who we want to become or what we would like to do with our future?” My increasing curiosity on these questions led me to think about the concept of each individual and how their environment, different experiences and cultural background shape them Therefore, I decided to adapt my art to the minimalistic yet complex style, all through the use of color and shapes
My intentions for this exhibition are reflected differently within each individual artwork. Together they create a united depiction of my path through life Though this exhibition is a collection of equally relevant artworks, there are two pieces in particular that I want to draw careful attention to My painting Baßdorf, named after a place in Germany where I grew up, explores mother and sisterhood, as each canvas is dedicated to one of my family members such as, my mother, my sister and myself This artwork carries special importance in my exhibition, as it symbolizes the ground foundation of my childhood and the people most important to me. For the foundation of the center canvas, embodying my mother, I added an extra layer of gesso which is visibly standing out from underneath the paint This conveys the additional knowledge she carries in comparison to my sister and I Additionally, when paying close attention to the forest, one can notice how the light reflecting in the trees spreads from the middle canvas to the left and
right ones This symbolizes the connection between my mother and us daughters, and the essential nature we inherited from her
Secondly, my artwork An Open Window Into the Past is of high importance in my exhibition because it gives the viewer a direct insight into my past The 3D effect is crucial in providing the viewer with a deeper understanding of my childhood traditions
These two artworks are of higher importance as they have a direct connection to my childhood which gives the viewer a chance to connect with my path on a deeper level, which links to the theme of my exhibition
Through this exhibition, I intend not only to connect with my audience on a personal level, but make them explore their own past, present and future identities I aim to make my audience more aware and present of their own being by suggesting them to reconnect with their inner child through memories By organizing my artworks according to the emotional weight they hold for me, I aim to guide my viewers through a chronological version of who I am and what represents me For example, An Open Window Into the Past and Baßdorf will be at the end of the exhibition, to allow the audience insight into who I am throughout the exhibition, representing the journey of my emotions
A FAMILIAR SUMMER BREEZE
STEPS INTO THE FUTURE
Oil paint on canvas
50 5 x 40 cm
The intention behind this artwork is to address the concept of one ' s personal journey through life The curved staircase without a railing extends beyond the frame to symbolise the constant uncertainty of life, while the blue pillars at the bottom represent the beginning of each adventure one might experience To emphasise the message, I used chiaroscuro to create the illusion of depth Most importantly, the anonymous figure invites the viewer to immerse themselves in the painting
FOOTSTEPS INTO THE UNKNOWN
Oil paint on canvas
60 cm diameter
This painting represents the unknown path of life, with a beach setting, as it is one of my favorite places The sand represents the calm and set ground of past or present happenings in life, as in all the things that we are aware of and are in our control The footprints resemble the path that we choose to take and how we choose to act in the present Those leading into the rough ocean waves stand as a symbol for the unknown future and the burdens in life that we face
AN OPEN WINDOW INTO THE PAST
Acrylic paint on Foam board
42 x 59 5 cm
This artwork revolves around the concept of memory traveling into your past, giving the viewer an insight into one of my core memories with my Sister and Father at Christmas Out of four visible windows, only the one leading into my past is open, inviting the viewer to have a glimpse into my childhood, while the closed windows are shutting in the unknown The 3D effect brings this artwork to life and evokes movement, creating the illusion of emerging the preserved memory of my childhood
BAßDORF
Acrylic paint on Canvas
22 5 x 30 5 cm; 20 x 50 cm; 22 5 x 30 5 cm
This painting carries special importance to me personally as each canvas represents my close family members: the right my older Sister, the middle my Mother, and the left Myself Each of the same background, yet we vary from colors and tone used in each painting Furthermore, the centre canvas shows a boat, symbolizing stability and balance The scenery is a childhood memory which I share with my family, symbolizing the experiences and connections I formed that continue to shape who I am
BLOOMING THROUGH BOUNDARIES
Acrylic paint on Canvas
40 x 50 5 cm
This fingerpainting is meant to represent my creative journey as an artist through the emotions of and imagination of my younger self The fingerprints symbolize a childlike freedom in the painting, which is confronted with the fine outlines around the flowers, which stand for the restrictions that one has to face when growing up This represents the two realities colliding through color and surrealism, with which I want to encourage the audience to connect with their own inner child
UNMASKED
Acrylic paint and paper mache on Canvas
30 5 x 40 5 cm
The intention for this artwork is to depict the dense surroundings one faces when entering adult society, which I show by covering the mouth of the figure to represent the social oppression one might encounter Then this message is countered by the 3D mask coming out of the canvas, which represents the unleashed thoughts and identity which hides under the facade we put on to fit into society Lastly, the colors symbolize the chaotic and toxic environment we are surrounded by in the modern days
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Paper, Cloth, Light source, String 88 x 48 cm
This artwork serves as a 3D representation of the saying "don't judge a book by its cover ” This relates back to the concept of the fast judgement we tend to take on something at first glance I want to have the audience directly interact with my art, in order for them to fully dive into my personal path of becoming an adult, all through a visual representation of my life
A FAMILIAR SUMMER BREEZE
Oil paint on Canvas
40 5 x 30 5 cm
The scenery shown in the artwork represents a nostalgic summer evening, capturing childhood memories that I have made in the Tuscan countryside, which opened a new chapter in my life The color palette is made of various shades of green to symbolise my deep connection with nature and countryside, which stands as a symbol of freedom
UNMASKED
STEPS INTO THE FUTURE
AN OPEN WINDOW TO THE PAST
BAßDORF
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
FOOTSTEPS INTO THE UNKNOWN
BLOOMING THROUGH BOUNDARIES
ANGELINA WANG
This exhibition explores the theme of identity through cultural background,family, and the society around me. Growing up between Chinese, Italian and American cultures has exposed me to different values such as discipline and tradition compared to freedom and individualism These cultures sometimes made me feel lost or divided, but it also helped shape who I am today In my work, I examine how these different aspects coexist and influence shaping my personality, beliefs and choices
A central theme in my exhibition is tension between materialism and spirituality In my experiences with traditional Asian households, love is often expressed through financial support rather than verbal affection. While living in a modern capitalist society has made me question how much value we place money, status and appearance
My personality also influences my art I am someone who is highly aware of the present moment but young and impulsive, wanting to experience life freely. This contrast appears in my style. I am strongly influenced by Jean-Michel Basquiat’s raw graffiti, bold text, and expressive energy, as well as Yoshitomo Nara’s simple yet emotionally powerful figures Combining street-art elements with symbolic images allows me to visually express the tension between rebellion and reflection that defines my identity
The works selected for this exhibition represent different layers of my identity, including spirituality, cultural conflict, family dynamics and adolescence I chose artworks that connect through my religion, symbolism and contrast expressive style
For example, in Buddha Bless, I used a bold brown background with strong yellow graffiti text to create high contract and visual energy The cartoon-like Buddha figure is painted in a simple and centered way, creating calmness, while graffiti adds movement and youthful rebellion. In the skyscraper painting, I used soft pastel tones as a smooth base to create a dreamy and idealized image of ambition I then disrupted the surface with splashes, prints and textured materials to represent the hidden pressure and complexity behind modern success
In other paintings, I applied childlike abstract strokes and vivid colors to depict figures symbolizing my family members and their different states of mind as individuals The exaggerated forms and expressive lines are not realistic but emotional representations of how I feel and view them. Together with photography capturing my hometown this combination of painting, photography and deck of skate shows identity as layered, personal and constantly evolving
The arrangement of my exhibition was planned to guide the viewer through a visual and emotional journey about my identity. Moving from right to left, the works shift gradually from darker tones and tension toward brighter colors and a sense of resolution
The exhibition begins with Swear,Swear,Swear, its large-scale and controversial elements immediately attract attention, introducing my experience raised in an Asian traditional household but influenced by the western values This contrast reflects my inner conflict and allows the viewers to feel the rebellious tension that begins on knowing this side of my identity. Next to it, the photograph with the same scale and dark background is visually aesthetic The two hometown photographs represent the cultural environment that shaped my identity
Between these two canvases, Buddha Bless acts as a bright visual anchor between the darker works Its calm presence creates a peaceful moment for the viewers to pause and reflect.
The following works explore family relationships, including the metal plate pieces and the Three little pig skateboard decks These reflect how my siblings and I developed different identities growing up in the same household
Moving forward, the color becomes softer and more dreamlike Highest in the room is a cityscape that expresses my ambition to live in a large city while also questioning modern capitalist society Created to create expands this idea with the city swallowed by waves suggests how small human systems are compared to the universe The heartbeat line symbolizes excitement for the unknown future
The exhibition ends with Everything Everywhere All at Once , a peaceful landscape filled with vibrant colors and sparkles After the earlier tensions of culture, society and identity, this final work represents acceptance and the freedom of simply existing as who we are The overall layout leads viewers from conflict and pressure toward self acceptance and optimism
WHO ORDERED THE FAMILY?
BUDDHA
Acrylic paint on canvas
51 x 40 cm
This work captures my relationship with Buddhism As I develop my identity, I question whether my faith is truly my own or shaped by family’s influence? I depict the Buddha in a warm, cartoonish style to express comforting, safe, and full of blessings The muted earth-brown background symbolizes my roots grounded, while the radiant yellow halo, sprayed like sunlight, represents timeless wisdom The phrase ‘Buddha bless’ reflects the reassurance I seek in moments of doubt or fear
EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE
Acrylic paint on canvas
70 x 70 cm
Inspired by Everything everywhere all at once, particularly the rock scene, they symbolize human insignificance and the relief found in stillness Compared to the universe we are miniature but at the same time we are also infinite In contrast, the volcano symbolizes my mind-erupting with intrusive thoughts, creativity and possibility The sparkles and flower-like fireworks add whimsy emerging from chaos The piece explores living in the present in limitless potential that we own
HIGHEST IN THE ROOM
Acrylic paint on canvas
84 x 59 cm
I have always been drawn to big cities, the dream-like background of skyscrapers reflects my fascination and idealized view of urban life The perspective viewed from below dominates, revealing how capitalist society and rigid hierarchy shape us from positions of power that we live in Layered drips disrupt the architecture, exposing pressure and imperfection The title satirizes the obsession with ‘rising’ in society, linking the tension between my dreams and the systems shaping my identity
‘SWEAR, SWEAR, SWEAR’
Acrylic paint on canvas
84 x 59 cm
Titled ‘Swear, Swear, Swear’ , this piece examines my conflict with traditional Asian cultural authority and influenced by Western adolescent rebellion A dominant golden dragon symbolizes inherited discipline in Asian culture, holding a cigarette adding irony and realism and confronting a martini glass The title suggests both oath and profanity, inviting open-minded reflection on how rebellious acts shape identity depending on perspectives
ATTACHED FROM DETACHMENT
Photography collage on canvas
84 x 59 cm
Titled Attached from detachment, this piece combines photographs taken in Wenzhou, China and Prato, Italy which are both considered my hometowns ‘Attached‘ suggests belonging and roots symbolizing the two similar trees, while ‘Detachment’ reflects migration and the cultural distance I experienced I taped them to a canvas with chaotic brushstrokes, evoking preserved memory reflecting tension and integration within my dual identities
WHO ORDERED THE FAMILY?
Set of two metal plates
100 x 80 cm
Drawn on metal plates with markers, this explores family structure and hierarchy Two panels combined suggest how my parents unite to form a family When two identities merge, new roles, dynamics and expectations emerge Abstract, child-like figures express individuality, with positions carefully planned to reflect relationships and balanceThe chaotic marks convey the emotional complexity against the rigidity of metal, acknowledging that no family is perfect or without conflict
CREATED TO CREATE
Acrylic paint on canvas
70 x 70 cm
The piece means that our existence carries meaning- that we are here to express ourselves,shape our own paths,and leave something behind The cityscape is surrounded with waves showing how small the city is compared to the infinite ocean, reflecting both vulnerability and possibility It symbolizes my dreams of urban life while the darker lower section suggests the depth of capitalist society The heartbeat line expresses the excitement and courage I carry into the unknown future
THREE LITTLE PIGS
Set of 3 skateboard deck
44 x 7 cm
Inspired by The Three Little Pigs, these three pigs represent me and my siblings, exploring how identity evolves over time Though raised in the same household, we respond differently to pressure Brick, wood, and straw symbolize stages of emotional resilience gained by different age and experience Skateboard deck links to our childhood and their function as vehicles, suggesting movement and personal journeys The childlike style reflects memory and growth from innocence to strength
EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE
CREATED TO CREATE
BUDDHA BLESS
THREE LITTLE PIGS
ATTACHED FROM DETACHMENT
HIGHEST IN THE ROOM
‘SWEAR, SWEAR, SWEAR’
VIVIAN XU
The selected artworks are linked by the broad concept of “limitations” and “boundaries” and “borders” because these are tools we use to define what we see, what we feel and who we are I was hugely influenced by my personal experiences, indeed each artwork can be described as the result of several reflections I had on what was happening in my life
My life is full of changes and transformations I am growing up, people around me are becoming different over time, and the world is constantly evolving That is why there are three oil paintings that explore time and its limitations The Aquarium represents the past that we can still “visit” and “revisit” through memory, and how, despite temporal limitations symbolized by the glass, we can still connect with what is already gone In Let it go, let it come, the running figure shows us the importance of not allowing ourselves to be limited by past experiences and to have the courage to move forward, while enjoying and living in the present The third painting called Silent rain explores the theme of unpredictability and how we actually have no clue of what tomorrow will look like; a rain we cannot hear represents the accumulations of events that will shape the future, but we cannot be aware of this until the water submerged us.
Through my art-making I attempt to find answers The piece Reflection tries to answer the question “who are you?” and plays with the double meaning the title has: reflections over a reflective surface and reflections as thoughts I particularly liked this dual meaning, and I continued this investigation by using real mirrors in my other two artworks, Reality? and Be selective, where I explored the questionability of reality through the use of anamorphosis and the theme of healthy boundaries I used reflective materials and optical illusions in order to engage the viewers and involve them actively in the reflection of the themes explored The influence of surrealism and artists such as Salvador Dalì is visible in many artworks, as I made extensive use of symbolisms In Sunflowers and Eggshells, I took inspiration from Dalinian symbolism in order to represent the concept of life The use of resin is purposeful as it resembles water, the source of life, but also freezes the elements. This is meant to show attempts to create everlasting values despite life being limited in time When I started to consider spatial limitations, physical distance came to mind With the two paintings connected with each other I want to show how such distance can be overcome by emotional connections The fact I used two separate canvases strengthened the concept of distance
While oil painting is an excellent form of visual communication I needed something that could transcend the limitations of two-dimensions, so I explored a range of materials and techniques The four oils on canvas are arranged together because they all explore temporal limitations and there is a natural flow from the past to the future that the viewer can follow, where Let it go, let it come connects The Aquarium with Silent rain. Reflection is hung with them because human thought is fundamental in reflecting on the concept of time The four paintings are arranged circularly, resembling the shape of the remaining artworks This shape aims to convey a sense of harmony, which can only be achieved when there are some limits and boundaries and rules that organize the chaos Reflection, Reality? and Be selective are in the centre of the arrangement because they are all questioning the world The table for Reality? is placed below eye levels, which would guide the viewer to adjust their perspective in order to see the right shape of the heart, While Be selective is hung at eye levels, allowing the viewer to see themselves in the mirror and consider the importance of their identity when setting boundaries In fact, the aim of this exhibition is not to provide definite answers, but to lead the viewers to reflect on their own realities and raise new questions to investigate
REFLECTION
Oil paint on canvas
40 5 x 30 5 cm
This self-portrait shows the struggles when attempting to answer the question “Who am I?” The thin layer of water divides the inner and the outer world The little boats swimming around and catching fish represent the process of thinking, which connects the two worlds We can see our appearance through the mirror or we create an image of ourselves in our head, but can we ever know how close these representations are to reality?
THE AQUARIUM
Oil paint on canvas
40 x 60 cm
The dolphin and the little girl are separated from us by the glass of the aquarium It is just a thin layer, but divides the two dimensions definitely Together, the two are the representation of childhood, when everything was possible thanks to imagination A childhood that is, at this time, unreachable, but still “visitable”: we can recall memories and get lost in them, we can still get inspired by creativity of the younger version of ourselves and let them illuminate our current lives
LET IT GO, LET IT COME
Oil paint on canvas
40 5 x 30 5 cm
The painting represents a running figure that is leaving dark and cold woods, a representation of her past The path is a symbol of life She does not look back, she has learned how to not let her past define and restrict her and that is why she can run towards where sunshine is However, she is not looking ahead to the future either Instead, she is looking around, enjoying the moment and living in the present Her heart-shaped necklace is shining because she is following her heart
SUNFLOWERS AND EGGSHELLS
Dried sunflowers, eggshells, sunflower seeds, leaves, resin 30 cm in diameter, 2 5 cm
Humans often fail to understand life’s complexities and peculiarities, but such features are what makes life uniquely beautiful Although life itself is often contradictory, it is harmonious in its own way If we add sunflower’s vitality with egg shell’s fragility we obtain a definition of life: powerful but delicate; characterized by infinite possibilities but limited in time The resin freezes the time and shows the attempts to overcome life’s ephemerality
Oil paint on canvas
50 x 35 cm
A flood is happening and everything will be covered by water soon The figure in the house is unaware of this, still planning for her potential future while the clock behind, a symbol of time, is fading away It represents the unpredictability of tomorrow, and how being in control of our lives is just an illusion The powerlessness of the branch in the tumultuous water can be compared to our own situation This element, with the windows, also creates an inverted triangle, implying uncertainty
REALITY?
Ink on paper, mirror paper on cylinder 42 x 29 7 cm, 8 cm in diameter, 12 3 cm
Sometimes we may fail to recognize something until we see it from a certain perspective Perception and human understanding do not necessarily equal reality, this makes us question what is real and whether there is something that is beyond what we can comprehend Inspired by OroszI, I used the technique of anamorphosis to show these concepts I chose the imagery of an anatomic heart as it is a symbol of life My drawing was inspired by Charles Bell’s Engravings of the Arteries made in 1801
“I JUST CALLED TO SAY HEY”
Oil paint on canvas, pasta, thread
12 5 x 17 5 cm, 17 5 x 12 5 cm
The physical space between the two paintings and the difference between the styles of architecture are meant to show physical and geographical distance However, this barrier can be overcome with emotional connections, represented by the red thread of the telephone, which stands out thanks to the contrast created by its high saturation The canvas are hung, so allowed to move freely, so that the distance between is not fixed This symbolizes the flexibility created by the emotional connections
BE SELECTIVE
Oil paint on mirror
24 cm in diameter
The imagery of the cell membrane symbolises selectivity, which is an important characteristic that healthy boundaries should have In this way you are actively making decisions, allowing the “good” things in and the “bad” things out These elements are shown by tea and biscuits I painted on a mirror because to set clear boundaries people need to have a clear idea of who they are, what makes them feel good and what not The broken pieces remind us how delicate those boundaries are
SILENT RAIN
THE AQUARIUM
SILENT RAIN
BE SELECTIVE
SUNFLOWERS AND EGGSHELLS
“I
JUST CALLED TO SAY HEY”
A HEARTFELT THANK YOU TO
Ms. Baddeley, Dr. Killen, and Administration
Ms. De Rossi and the Maintenance Team
Ms. Bruckner and the Communications Team
Friends and Families
