BFA, Studio Art (Digital Studio Practice)
Secondary Focus: Print and Narrative Forms
Artist Statement
We live in a time where deeper human emotions aren’t often expressed. When asked “how are you?” more often than not, the reply is “I’m fine”, “I’m good”, or another short and basic answer. These interactions have become a common polite gesture rather than an actual question. My work responds to basic niceties, like asking “How are you?”. Then, it moves deeper to probe, “How are you really?”. My goal is to provide participants an opportunity to be open and honest about how they really are in a world where we often offer inauthentic answers when asked how we are. These answers may allow for others to feel added empathy and kindness towards those around them.
“Really” took shape as a digital work. In this digital/ video work, the viewer hears the voices of participants answering the question “How are you really?” utilizing the original audio from participants is important so the viewer can experience the inflections, emotions behind what is being said. This allows for the viewer to develop a deeper connection with these individuals. These audio clips overlay a time-lapse video taken of a public setting with people mingling around, creating a situation where one might as “How are you?”.
Audio and video
Duration – 43:22