Semi-finalist 2025
| Submitted by: | Wanas Radwan |
| Department: | Renewable Resources |
| Faculty: | Agricultural, Life + Environmental Sciences |
This image portrays a fragmented face embraced by the blurry backdrop of nature. The two sides of the face are joined together by a tree trunk weaving its way through the middle of the canvas, and creating an umbrella of leaves above the head. My research focuses on the ways in which trauma-sensitive practices support one’s journey towards wholeness. This art piece aims to capture the paradoxical relationship between the fragmented parts of self and the unified cycle of life to which each person belongs. The mosaic of jagged felt pieces against the blurred spirals of acrylic paint resists the ‘perfect portrait’ of self that capitalist societies often encourage individuals to pursue. Importantly, the eyes form the focal point of the image, symbolizing a key aspect of healing, which involves the willingness to see oneself and the vulnerability to be seen as imperfect.
Was your image created using Generative AI?
No.
How was your image created?
I used a blank white canvas as my base. I then cut pieces of felt into small square-like pieces using kitchen scissors. Without a ruler or sharp blade, the edge of each felt piece became jagged; this practice was intentional, as it enabled me to twist each piece as I added it to the canvas, creating a puzzle-like effect at the end. I used a variety of colours to form half the shape of a face. I repeated these steps to form the second half of the face on the opposite side of the canvas. This stage of the art process took several hours, as each piece needed to be glued to the canvas individually. In the second phase, I added drops of acrylic paint to any white spaces on the canvas, excluding the eyes. To blend the paint, I let the brush gently push down on the canvas, and then I twisted my wrist to create a sweeping effect. This technique allowed me to blend the colours, while also creating a blurred effect in the backdrop.
Where is the image located?
A visualization of the journey towards wholeness by attending to fragments of self.