Degree Name
MFA (Master of Fine Arts)
Program
Art
Date of Award
5-2021
Committee Chair or Co-Chairs
Travis Graves
Committee Members
Lindsay Rogers, Michael Anthony Fowler
Abstract
An Unbearable Illumination of Truth is a series of sculptures created to explore the connection between trauma and healing. The sculptural exhibition addresses economic, occupational, childhood, sexual, and gender-based trauma. These sculptures incorporate familiar motifs and visual metaphors to express narratives of varying types of traumas. A broad range of sculptural materials (such as wood, fabric, and found objects) and methods are used to create these symbolic, objective forms. The juxtaposition of shelters with other forms and materials visually enacts the themes of vulnerability and intrigue that characterizes traumatic incidents. Shelters are referenced throughout this entire body of work as an allegory for identity. Ultimately, this work is intended to induce empathy and raise awareness of important, underlying social issues that revolve around trauma. This message is especially important today due to a dramatic increase of trauma related issues as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Document Type
Thesis - unrestricted
Recommended Citation
Glawson, Shanna, "An Unbearable Illumination of Truth" (2021). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 3914. https://dc.etsu.edu/etd/3914
Copyright
Copyright by the authors.