Masked #05

Completed: 2022

Materials: Mixed media.  Acrylic, ink, markers, glitter, & reflective gold discs on 300gms cold pressed art paper

Size: 40x50cms with a 2cm white edge (paper size 42x52cms)

Frame Size: 52x72cm & 3.5cm deep

Note: These pieces were framed for exhibition but for safety & cost purposes the frames will be removed for any orders requiring delivery outside of Perth.  The pieces are sized to fit most standard & affordable off the shelf framing options (I recommend IKEA RIBBA or LOMVIKEN frames).

About:

This piece was created as part of my Masked collection for the "Polarity" group abstract art exhibition held at Old Habits Bar in November 2022.

“Masked” is a collection of mixed media, abstract paintings expressing the constant, exhaustive battle of living with & masking severe symptoms of ADHD & the genuine self, to fit in to a world whose expectations deny a sense of ever truly belonging.

Historically the neurodivergent mind is recognised as disabled because it lacks typical functions & therefore goes against the grain of what society deems a human as successful, acceptable, and “typical” in our societal matrix.  This archaic narrative reinforces the idea that anything outside of neurotypical is lacking when rather it is simply misunderstood, & therefore disempowered.

The pieces depict white noise representative of masking, & its purpose is to show the level of distraction & frustration that masking creates in addition to what is an already exhaustive state of mind for people struggling with neurodivergence in a neurotypically geared world.   This constant funneling of effort and energy is wasting innovative human resource the world needs more than ever.  When we look beyond the mask it’s evident that what initially looks like utter chaos is a complex creativity that simply needs greater understanding.

Whilst this body of work was created around my own lifelong journey with ADHD before & after diagnosis, it is inclusive for all people who feel they mask, to varying degrees, their genuine selves to meet expectation and fit the societal mould. 

Only once we collectively unmask and let the entirety of our unique selves shine uninhibited and celebrated will we all truly belong.