Abstract

This exhibition is comprised of two complementary bodies of works. Each body of work explores the concept of a societal structure where culture and rules erode individuality. The community is ultimately conditioned to behave according to the conventions dictated by the environment.

"Parts of a Whole" is a performative installation which explores my fascination with the relationship between the individual and the collective. It is constructed with fabric, with custom-made buttons and passport photos attached and lighting device. Each button contains a face, and therefore represents the individual. Passport images are used to illustrate the extent of unification.

In the installation "I" is made up of four sets of desk and chairs are lined up to representing a typical classroom setting. Imbedded in each desk is a video screen which plays the same video loop on all four screens. A single performer in the video writes the same Chinese character while another erases the character till "perfection" is achieved. Through my work, I hope to evoke discussions on how societal rules cause conformity and erode distinctive qualities within the individual.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Artists' books; Performance art--Themes, motives; Installations (Art)--Themes, motives; Video installations (Art)--Themes, motives; Photography, Artistic--Themes, motives; Portrait photography

Publication Date

6-19-2014

Document Type

Thesis

Student Type

Graduate

Degree Name

Imaging Arts (MFA)

Department, Program, or Center

School of Photographic Arts and Sciences (CIAS)

Advisor

Roberley Bell

Advisor/Committee Member

Angela Kelly

Advisor/Committee Member

Oscar Palacio

Comments

Physical copy available from RIT's Wallace Library at N7433.4.M464 P37 2014

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

Plan Codes

IMGART-MFA

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