Threads of the Past
Materials: Assorted fabric scraps in different colors and patterns, cotton, thread, sewing machine, red jute rope, stool
Form: Mixed Media Installation, 2023
This artwork is a deeply personal reflection of my past, encapsulating themes of confinement, struggle, and the journey towards self-discovery. The monster-like doll, crafted from assorted fabric scraps of different colors and patterns, symbolizes the fragmented aspects of my identity and the complex emotions I experienced. Each piece of fabric represents different memories and feelings, stitched together to form a whole, much like the way our experiences shape who we are.
The doll is bound to a stool with red jute rope, a vivid representation of the restrictions and constraints that held me back during that period of my life. The red rope signifies intense emotions—such as frustration, anger, or urgency—and highlights the severity of the limitations I felt. The act of binding the doll to the stool emphasizes a lack of freedom and autonomy, mirroring how I perceived my situation at the time.
By using a sewing machine, thread, and manual stitching, the process of creating the doll becomes a metaphor for piecing together and understanding my past. The stool serves not only as a physical support but also as a symbol of the burdens or responsibilities that kept me anchored.
This piece invites viewers to explore the universal experience of feeling confined or restricted and the emotional complexities that accompany such times in our lives. It speaks to the struggle of reconciling with one's past and the effort required to break free from the ties that bind us. Through this artwork, I aim to convey a narrative of overcoming adversity, embracing one's history, and moving towards personal liberation and growth.