Faiza Swaleh Shariff
Mixed-media drawing (pencil, charcoal, pastel, pen)
297mm x 420mm
Title: ‘External manifestations of the internal’
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The drawings explore the complexities of human emotion focused on the expressive power of the eye, but the real meanings depend purely on the viewer's perspective. Inspired by renowned artists such as Maurits Cornelis Escher and Georgia O'Keeffe, the drawings infuse elements of surrealism, shading, and bold forms, crafting a narrative that delves deep into the emotional landscape of the human experience. The velvety textures capture the nuances of human emotion. The blended graphite powder with dry brush and white acrylic paint for highlights create a sense of fluidity and luminosity that mirror the subtle shifts in mood and feeling. The omission of certain features, such as the eyebrows, challenge traditional notions of expression and perception, prompting viewers to question their assumptions. This disruption invites viewers to explore alternative ways of understanding the emotional landscape. Light and shadow is used to symbolise the dichotomy between joy and sorrow, hope and despair, a visual representation of the internal emotional journey, revealing the hidden truths and complexities that lie beneath the surface. Reflective elements within the iris add another layer of meaning to the drawings, bridging the gap between viewer and subject. |
“ One of the most valuable aspects of the program has been the opportunity to challenge myself and step out of my comfort zone. Each critique and constructive feedback session with support and motivation from my fellow students has been instrumental in fostering growth and development, reinforcing the notion that vulnerability and openness are integral to artistic progress.”