Oral Presentations - Session 1F: UC 333
The Works: A Loss of Childhood Innocence and Cultural Identity
Presentation Type
Presentation
Faculty Mentor’s Full Name
Kevin Bell
Faculty Mentor’s Department
Art
Abstract / Artist's Statement
My works revolve around the importance of innocence; the magic of childhood; the often overlooked casualties of growth. There is a sense of wonderment, naivety, and curiosity born in each person, an inherent spark of vivacity that grows, flares, and in too many cases, peters out. In the face of the myriad forces of the world—pressures, dangers, responsibilities—oftentimes one loses their sense of self. And the first part to go is the child within; the carefree, short-sighted, impetuous side that finds itself so out of place in a grown-up world.
In my art I wish for that childhood never to cease. I explore subjects such as personal growth and identity. Societal structures and expectations often warp the task of finding oneself into redefining oneself, discarding the past for a leaner, meaner, and more efficient future. My works questions these processes; is growing old really growing up? Or are we all really growing down instead? I try to create spaces in which idealism is not a burden but a gift, not shackles but wings. Most importantly, I strive to rediscover that happiness which so many people leave behind.
I try to convey these broad ideas not necessarily through specific imagery, but also through bold shapes, vibrant colors, and abstract compositions. While I don’t limit myself to specific media, I mostly work with oil or acrylic paints on canvas or panels, in series, single works, and installations. Each piece or series of pieces is a narration of emotional experience embellished with hints of optimism and playfulness, meant to be viewed with an adult’s eyes, but with a child’s heart.
Category
Visual and Performing Arts (including Creative Writing)
The Works: A Loss of Childhood Innocence and Cultural Identity
UC 333
My works revolve around the importance of innocence; the magic of childhood; the often overlooked casualties of growth. There is a sense of wonderment, naivety, and curiosity born in each person, an inherent spark of vivacity that grows, flares, and in too many cases, peters out. In the face of the myriad forces of the world—pressures, dangers, responsibilities—oftentimes one loses their sense of self. And the first part to go is the child within; the carefree, short-sighted, impetuous side that finds itself so out of place in a grown-up world.
In my art I wish for that childhood never to cease. I explore subjects such as personal growth and identity. Societal structures and expectations often warp the task of finding oneself into redefining oneself, discarding the past for a leaner, meaner, and more efficient future. My works questions these processes; is growing old really growing up? Or are we all really growing down instead? I try to create spaces in which idealism is not a burden but a gift, not shackles but wings. Most importantly, I strive to rediscover that happiness which so many people leave behind.
I try to convey these broad ideas not necessarily through specific imagery, but also through bold shapes, vibrant colors, and abstract compositions. While I don’t limit myself to specific media, I mostly work with oil or acrylic paints on canvas or panels, in series, single works, and installations. Each piece or series of pieces is a narration of emotional experience embellished with hints of optimism and playfulness, meant to be viewed with an adult’s eyes, but with a child’s heart.