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CHILDHOOD

Artist Statement

Childhood is a time many look back upon with nothing but fond memories. Growing up with a loving family, seeing friends, having minimal issues that stray from the amount of toys one has. However, not all are so lucky to have led such a life. My artwork depicts a young girl hiding from her abusive father, looking scared of what is to come. I chose to explore the idea of abuse as the glorified idea of a perfect childhood in this society tends to be far from the truth, characterized by the complete opposite of abusive parents. I initially intended to create a piece where the prompt was explored in a more positive light, however after completing my sketchbook I decided to go the opposite direction and take a more serious viewpoint on childhood.

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The subject in this photo is a young girl, representing the word childhood. She is covered in her blanket and holding her stuffed animal while cowering in fear. The shadow that is cast over her body is her father. The girl is mainly in dark due to her father blocking the only light source. This represents the depression of her childhood due to her father’s abuse. The blanket symbolizes not only protection from her father but youth as when one is younger, it is common to have a favorite blanket or toy that makes one feel safe or has sentimental value.

 

From creating this artwork, I have learned how to incorporate shadows into photos as well as the importance of facial expressions on subjects. I am overall pleased with how this photo turned out, given that I had to experiment with the shadow component.  

Unedited Final

Contact Sheet

Sketchbook

© 2017 Caroline Kindbom. All Rights Reserved.

Aperture image from Moo with permission to use commercially.

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