Dreams and the psyche

My exhibition explores the themes of dreams and the psyche, more specifically, the part of the brain that most people are often scared of or don’t acknowledge its presence. I like to call it the “odd part”, a mental space where nothing truly makes sense, emotions are tightened and concepts are distorted, often going against the preconceptions present in our society. It is the part of us we often push away, where imagination does not have limits, and where the most obscure yet fascinating thoughts and feelings are formed. I have used the theme of dreams and the unconscious mind to interpret this concept into art. It is important to keep in mind, when looking at my exhibition, that there isn’t always an explanation as to why I have portrayed a specific object or represented it in a certain way. I have tried to highlight the nonsensical aspects of a person, the deepest parts of the unconscious mind, and therefore the main purpose is not to forcefully make logical or rational sense but rather to challenge the viewer’s observation in accepting what is unexplained. However, leaving space for the viewer’s mind, to interpret it with freedom and choice. Overall, this exhibition is based on the exploration of the deepest and most abnormal parts of the brain and soul, where the strangest thoughts are stimulated and feelings are often absurd and uncontrollable. To portray this concept, I was inspired by dreams, capturing the melancholy aura of a distorted world. I explored the Surrealism art movement, specifically looking at the works of Dalì, Giorgio De Chirico, and Alfred Kubin.

Most of my artworks revolve around my absurdity, which I hope others can relate to. I have given two titles to each of my artworks; the second title is a concoction of sounds that aims to convey the absurd essence of the artwork. However, apart from the irrational and nonsensical aspects of my exhibition, there is a pattern of order in which the artworks have been placed. I arranged my pieces in a specific sequence; commencing with a self-portrait that captures the initial perception, often misleading, people may have according to one’s physical appearance. Each consecutive artwork explores a chronological journey, starting from childhood, the first love, the struggles of becoming an adult, and ultimately arriving at a state of inner peace, which in this case is explored through humor and ridiculing certain concepts. The way in which I have placed my exhibition creates a clear beginning and end. Lastly, an element I would like the audience to pay attention to when looking at the overall exhibition is the presence of hands. I find myself incorporating hands in my artwork all the time, sometimes without even realizing it, this is because they have a strong symbolic meaning for me.

Hands are the most tangible tool we possess for exploring our surroundings and interacting with the world. They play an important role in communicating and expressing emotions, from fear, and anguish to love and support. They are also symbolic of the human condition, our position in the world, and, our relationship with others. Hands represent humans’ ability to create, but also destroy, connect, and disconnect. When it comes to dreams and the psyche, hands often represent our sense of control over our lives. Clenched fists might symbolize anger, while open palms might signify openness and acceptance. In the realm of psychology, hands also could represent the part of the psyche that mediates between the ID, the Superego, and the Ego. In my exhibition hands can be shown enlargen, cut off, holding on to something, or relaxed, they can be distorted or in fragments.