‘Fragmented Connections’
Year: 2022
Fragmented Connections examined the profound social and psychological impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the pervasive disconnection it imposed. This artwork centered on the effects of social isolation and the reshaping of interpersonal relationships, using the distortion of faces to highlight the strained connections that became a common reality during lockdown.
I employed bold, flowing black ink lines, simplicity, and negative space to create visual consistency throughout the piece. This approach mirrored the monotonous, seemingly endless cycle of pandemic days while conveying the breakdown of familiar social structures. By drawing from distorted panoramic photos of the face, I sought to encapsulate both the emotional and physical fragmentation experienced during this unique moment in history.
Process
The process for creating Fragmented Connections involved extensive research into similar works that explored themes of disconnection and distortion. I studied various artistic approaches to represent emotional and social fragmentation, which informed my own conceptual direction. Additionally, I engaged in extensive sketching and life drawing to capture the nuances of the human form and face, focusing on how distortion could convey deeper psychological states. This preparatory work allowed me to experiment with different techniques and perspectives, ultimately leading to the development of the final piece. By blending observational drawing with abstract concepts, I aimed to create a powerful visual statement that resonated with the experiences of isolation during the pandemic.
Outcome
The outcome of Fragmented Connections was a striking visual representation of the emotional and social impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The artwork effectively conveyed the themes of disconnection and fragmentation through its bold distortions and fluid lines, inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences of isolation and the shifting nature of relationships during this unprecedented time.
