Looking Into Your Eyes, I See Myself

Abstract

My thesis support paper consists of a five-chapter fairy tale in a fantasy setting with parable elements. Each chapter represents a different stage of research during my journey through the master’s program. Via personal metaphors, mischievous iconographies, and childhood experiences, I traverse my psyche finding ways to cope with my childlike self / past and my adult self / present. By creating visual and written stories, I aim to develop a thesis support paper in a playful and creative writing style that both compliments the object of the artwork (a child) and contrasts the subject of the research (childhood memory, trauma, and family relationships). This research helped me to discover a fascinating connection between making art and the process of healing or therapy. It is important for me to share my story and my healing process with viewers through this exhibition that documents my journey. Hopefully, viewers reflect upon their own stories, and are moved to find their own ways of creating a better ending for themselves. I experienced emotional and mental growth during the process of disclosing these memories through the works and this paper. I hope that I have offered an opportunity for my community to engage in a broader conversation about the significance of childhood memories and mental health.