Abstract

My series aims to delve deep into my personal experiences, narrating the uncertainty of graduating, the imbalance between study and work, and the anxiety brought about by countless rejections that have gradually disrupted the rhythm of my life. This disruption manifests in physiological symptoms such as insomnia, irregular menstrual cycles, emotional fluctuations, and the discovery of bodily lumps.My thesis work is separated into three parts of my journey. The first part portrays a dark period marked by chaos and confusion as I underwent a transition in my social roles and visually metaphorizes the onset of anxiety as darkness and chaos engulfing my life, akin to a tornado. This represents the psychological and physical disruptions on my journey. Facing the imminent collapse of my health, I realized the urgent need for self-rescue. The complex choices involved in the process of self-rescue became the main theme of the second part of my work. Using 3D modeling techniques, I depict the scenes of decision-making within the brain.  The final part portrays nature, people, and objects as shelters for my soul. My intimate relationships with them rebuild my sense of belonging and nurtures my self-worth.  This series is a reflective exploration of my journey, revealing the challenges and growth I faced during this transformative stage of life. Through sharing my story and creating my work, I hope to provide comfort and inspiration to others facing similar uncertainties and struggles. The use of combined materials is a consistent strategy throughout the series, serving to articulate shifts in emotional states. The first part employs metal materials alongside failed 3D-printed models to convey experiences of failure in the creative process, as well as the pressure and anxiety caused by academic and professional demands. The second part integrates resin with 3D-printed models, using blue as the dominant tone to reflect my gradual adaptation to changing social roles and the development of emotional resilience, leading toward a sense of balance. In the final part, 3D-printed models become the primary medium, combined with natural elements to symbolize a positive emotional transition characterized by self-discovery, clarity of direction, and personal growth. Overall, material choices function as metaphors for my transformation after breaking free from constraints.

Publication Date

2026

Document Type

Thesis

Student Type

Graduate

Degree Name

Metals and Jewelry Design (MFA)

Department, Program, or Center

Art, School of

College

College of Art and Design

Advisor

Juan Carlos Caballero-Perez

Advisor/Committee Member

Laurel Fulton

Advisor/Committee Member

Jane Shellenbarger

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

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