Who Am I?
Who am I? represents a continuation of my exploration of identity, shifting from external actions to internal declarations of self. Created during the early years of fatherhood, this series reflects a period of introspection as I navigated the complexities of personal roles and their emotional expressions. Each piece presents a distinct identity, blending playful imagination with deep-seated resonance.
Expressions play a pivotal role throughout the series, emphasising their ability to communicate beyond language - a theme that aligns with my interest in how facial and emotional cues are perceived, particularly through the lens of my experience as an autistic artist. These works invite viewers to consider the subtleties of selfhood, the evolving nature of personal identity, and the quiet power of visual storytelling.
I am a ballet dancer depicts a poised yet vulnerable figure, drawing on my own past as a dancer. The slight nervousness conveyed in the feet and the figure’s serene yet focused expression captures the tension between performance and introspection. This piece reflects not only an assertion of identity but also the emotional complexity of embodying a role that is both deeply personal and outwardly performative.
I am a pirate channels a playful yet rebellious spirit, exploring the allure of freedom and adventure. The figure, with its bold declaration, embodies the contrasting themes of independence and societal expectation. This piece playfully subverts traditional notions of identity, presenting a character that feels both universal and deeply individual.
I am a male astronaut ventures into the vastness of the unknown, reflecting the human drive for exploration and discovery. The declaration speaks to aspirations and the courage to step beyond one’s comfort zone. At the same time, the figure retains a personal vulnerability, tying it back to the universal question of self-definition.
I am a female astronaut mirrors the adventurous spirit of its counterpart while challenging traditional gender narratives. By presenting both male and female astronauts within the same series, the work acknowledges the fluidity and multifaceted nature of identity, while celebrating the shared human drive for growth, curiosity, and ambition.
Together, these works delve into the ways we define ourselves through roles, dreams, and expressions. By using declarative titles, the series boldly asserts each character’s identity, encouraging the viewer to consider their own roles and aspirations. While personal in origin, the works invite a broader exploration of how we craft, inhabit, and perceive the many facets of who we are.