Project three illustrates how I reconstructed my identity after brain surgery, moving away from the dependent role but being intimidated by adulthood; as I discovered who I was as a ‘new person,’ my anxiety and self-doubt increased. I learned that I doubted myself less when recognizing my strengths and capabilities.
Reconstructing Identity: This piece illustrates how I reconstructed my identity after surgery. I tried to put the pieces back together, but not everything matched. Imagine trying to put a puzzle together without vision or resources. This is why some pieces are flipped upside down, and the eyes are covered.
Frozen: This piece is about having increased anxiety after surgery. The curly hair is meant to reflect this. The eyes are meant to appear shocked! The black-and-white base is meant to illustrate my black-and-white thoughts, which contributed to my anxiety.
Death to Dependence: This piece is meant to reflect my experience of giving up dependence. I have the eyes covered in gold, subconsciously like how in ancient times they would place coins over the eyes to keep them shut when there was a death. I put a coin on the throat that reads, "Your past does not determine who you are; your past prepares you for who you are to become."
Self-Doubt: This sculpture is bronze because my self-esteem was improving, but I still doubted my abilities. Therefore, it is not a gold sculpture. The eyes are looking down to reflect self-doubt. When I was confident in my ability to use my voice, my self-doubt decreased; this is illustrated by the keys at the base and on the throat. My key to confidence was expressing myself assertively and not doubting my abilities.
Oh, The Places You'll Go! : This represents my curiosity in exploring independence. I have my hands open on the side of the neck to reflect a willing stance. I placed a map around the head along with door knobs. If I were willing, doors would open, and possibilities would exist. The coins at the base are inspirational quotes.
Emerging: This piece is supposed to be a winter scene, capturing one of winter's first snows. I am emerging. I doubt myself less; I am starting to believe in myself. I have hope for my future.