IB.DP2 VISUAL ARTS EXHIBITION

MY SPIRITUAL JOURNEY

Spirituality has always been the core of my values and main motivator for my growth as an individual. When embarking on this journey, I had recently relocated to a foreign country, Azerbaijan, for international education after years of settling in my country of origin, Trinidad. Without a sense of footing to integrate into a new community, meet higher academic standards and establish my own identity among strong presences, I lacked emotional stability to overcome daily challenges. Identifying the need for support in my wellbeing and self concept was pivotal as it was then evident I was ready to evolve from my past patterns of negative thinking, unhealthy standards and an unconfident mindset in order to become the best version of myself.

The first three pieces ‘Self Sabotage, ‘The Mortal’s Journey’ and ‘Death and Rebirth of the Ego’ are the first part of my journey entailing my previous approach before adopting any faith. It was a stage where I relied on my negative habits in daily life. ‘Emotional Isolation’, ‘The Hermit’ and ‘Constructing a Haven’ replicates this process of reaching to certain gods for guidance through prayers and traditions. I often spent time by my alter in order to create a peaceful, healing space. As a result viewers can view my transitions of discovery, meditation and construction. ‘Transmutation of Cursed Energy’, ‘Reflection of Mahadev’ and  ‘Astrological Transformation’ represents the awakening I had towards adopting the teachings I currently follow. The last two of the collection; ‘Armoured Angels’ and ‘House of Divinity’ unite all the beliefs I’ve gathered along the way (Hinduism, Paganism, Taoism, Buddhism, Christianity . The challenges in this process involved the development of my technical skill as I envisioned each piece to follow realism. However later in the course I decided to take the risk of being more experimental with some abstract techniques as well since it would further enhance my concepts for the viewer’s understanding and appreciation. It additionally brought in more of my artistic initiative, and visualised feelings. Therefore even with less structured methods, my emotions and point of view draws the attention of the viewer to resonate with my journey.

This exhibition represents why I have continued art throughout my entire childhood to this present day; connecting with communities through genuine and expressive forms of creation to then evoke their most vulnerable, positive and grown versions of themselves. Even if the viewers themselves do not resonate with my beliefs or any kind of faith, I hope for them to embark on a fulfilling journey that gives them strength and passion for their everyday life. 

(planning on selling most soonn -sorting out details for that atm)