olivia sims

Masked Reflections addresses the issue of mental health today. In my exhibit, I attempt to express the notion that many seemingly “normal” people suffer and battle with mental illness and try to hide it from public view in fear of judgement, prejudice, etc.  It is a widespread issue no matter where you go that affects the most vulnerable of people and has a personal significance in my life as me and many of my family members suffer from or have been affected by mental illness.

The exhibit consists of four mixed media pieces in which I have incorporated mask making, painted handmade mirrors, and audio tracks. The masks represent the “face” of those who struggle with mental illness put on for others, whereas the painted mirrors convey the hidden internal illnesses. Each piece represents a different illness. The illnesses that I focus on are Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, and Bipolar disorder. These illnesses have a personal significance for me, and I wanted to highlight these illnesses for the fact that they are still stigmatized today.

This exhibit is an interactive experience in which the viewer must interact with the piece physically in which they will have to unzip the mask to reveal their painted reflection. The audio components correspond to each piece for a more immersive experience. The mirrors are intended to be confrontational and compel the viewer to reflect on not only the matter of mental health but also reflect on their own mental health or stigma towards mental health.