The Weight of Souls - Grocery bags

Printable fabric and resin
~28'' (H) x ~15'' (W) x ~5'' (D)
2020

"21 Grams - Grocery Bag" is an ongoing series exploring the experiences of individuals who left traditional careers to pursue artistic passions. I document their stories through interviews and portraits, intending to create a comprehensive archive of these transformative journeys. The grocery bag symbolizes both a vessel for commodities and a metaphor for societal expectations.

This series examines the internal conflicts these artists encountered during their transitions, the realities of being an artist in the modern world, the human condition, and existentialism within late-stage capitalism. The portraits are digitally printed onto fabric, creating photo-sculptures that utilize the material's unique properties to convey the distortions of society and the intricacies of the human mind.

Adam Smith once argued that individual self-interest drives economic prosperity. However, our contemporary profit-driven society often leads to inequality, consumerism, and an unfulfilling rat race. The pandemic has only magnified these disparities, making the pursuit of self-fulfillment a privilege.

Through this project, I invite viewers to reflect on what hinders us from chasing our dreams, question the current notion of the American Dream, and contemplate the sacrifices necessary for a good life. Ultimately, "21 Grams - Grocery Bag" seeks to challenge societal norms and foster dialogue around what it means to live a fulfilling and authentic life.