FRACTURED – IZO
COLLECTIVE TRAUMA OF COVID-19
I have been thinking about the foundation of my fractured theme and basing it on the collective trauma COVID-19 and Melbourne’s Stage 4 lockdown.
I am satisfied with my research, which includes Kintsugi inspired applications to the work. Kintsugi or “golden joinery” is the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with lacquer mixed with precious metals including gold and silver. Philosophically, Kintsugi treats breakage and repair as part of the history of an object, rather than something to disguise, embracing the flawed or imperfect. Marks of wear by the use of an object are also highly valued. Applying this philosophy to my project connects the fragmented and fractured to evolution, healing and beauty.
I am also researching Gestalt design principals, where the brain seeks to make sense or order of fragmented or impartial images. The principals of Kintsugi and Gestalt are critical theoretical applications to the foundation of this project.
TRANSGENERATIONAL TRAUMA
It is the collective trauma of COVID-19 that makes me uncomfortable, and have realised that I can only speak or share of my own, be it personal or ancestral.
The foundation of my IZO series has subsequently changed, and I am now exploring transgenerational trauma. It is interesting to consider, particularly with my ancestry. I am looking forward to researching the psychological conditions of social, cultural or political impact (in many cases, all three) and their relationship with genetically passed on information and applying this to my practice.
My ancestors are Eastern European — Russia, Hungary and Romania – and on both sides (paternal and maternal), survivors of WWII Europe. We came to Australia seeking asylum, and are refugees in this land that we now call home.
THE SERIES
After careful consideration, I am satisfied that my research and application of the aesthetics and theories of Kintsugi, Wabi-Sabi and Gestalt are applicable and relevant to my project. The images also relate powerfully in a contemporary setting.