SVS Arts: Visual Symbols

Confidence

Air dry clay, ink, acrylic paint

4” x 2” x 4”

Sculpture #1, Full Angle 1

Sculpture #1, Full Angle 2

Sculpture #1, Detail

Constraint

Air dry clay, ink, acrylic paint, wire

4” x 3” x 4”

Sculpture #2, Full Angle 1

Sculpture #2, Full Angle 2

Sculpture #2, Detail

Reflection Statement

The ceramic sculptures entitled Confidence and Constraint were inspired by the imagery created by American Mcgee and Frida Kahlo, two visionaries whose work has inspired me ever since I was young. My intent is to visually display a juxtaposition between the freedom and limitations of finding yourself in a new environment.

I wanted to focus on animals as symbols, because nature has always enveloped my life. I decided to include a peacock as a symbol in my first piece in order to show the flourishing confidence and security in which I have gained by moving to St. Augustine. Still, peacocks roam the grounds of my home in Orlando, just as they do The Fountain of Youth here. This ties in to the idea of seeking solace in familiarity as I embrace new experiences. I chose a rabbit as a symbol within my work titled Constraint, as my mom always called me “bunny” growing up. Here, we see a test rabbit, suffering the burdens of a harsh environment and longing for an escape. This represents the struggles that I have faced at Flagler College, needles piecing the rabbit’s skin and highlighting the stresses that come with new experiences.

I felt that this work was lacking in detail when I first sculpted and inked it, so I used my existing knowledge of painting in order to add depth to the piece. I want to continue growing at Flagler, and learn more about how to live with full independence. This piece allowed me to explore the emotional turmoil that I have failed to properly articulate via words, allowing me to not only communicate, but understand my own emotions.

In-Process Photo 1

In-Process Photo 2

In-Process Photo 3

In-Process Photo 4

In-Process Photo 5

In-Process Photo 6

In-Process Photo 7

In-Process Photo 8

Research #1

The Symbolism of Peacocks

https://phxart.org/blog/the-symbolism-of-peacocks/#:~:text=While%20representing%20different%20meanings%20to,have%20wanted%20to%20be%20associated.

This article details the ways in which peacocks serve as symbols within art and culture, and how these symbols developed/originated. Generally, these animals serve as symbols for confidence and beauty.

Research #2

Rabbit as a Symbol: The Significance of Rabbits in Dreams and Art

https://rabbit.org/journal/4-11/symbol.html

Here, the symbolism of rabbits within dreams and art is highlighted. Although rabbits can represent positive concepts of strength and compassion, it can also serve as a symbol for sacrifice and the need for escape.

Research #3

Color Meanings — The Power and Symbolism of Colors

https://www.color-meanings.com/

This text gives a brief overview of color psychology. Blue is known to represent power and confidence, and green often represents prosperity. I intend to use these colors within my work for this reason.

Inspiration #1