This triptych containing 3x 30"x48" acrylic paintings explores the complexities of diasporic identity and the pressures of navigating contrasting beauty standards. Rendered in monochromatic blue, the work evokes a sense of vulnerability and introspection. The "shadows" symbolise the emotional and psychological complexities of feeling torn between two cultural worlds-one's heritage and the dominant society. The figure's position, hunched and trying to minimise her space, illustrates the emotional weight of trying to conform to one ideal or the other, and how such standards can make one feel invisible or inadequate.
Clutching in each hand, she holds a symbolic object: a traditional Japanese Kokeshi doll, representing family and Eastern ideals, and a Barbie doll, embodying Western beauty norms. These opposing figures highlight the pressure to conform to conflicting cultural expectations, forcing a choice between identities. The inability of the viewer to focus on both objects simultaneously mirrors this internal struggle, emphasising the challenge of integrating these dual influences.
This painting is a deeply personal exploration of my experiences with beauty standards as someone of mixed heritage. It invites viewers to consider how cultural expectations can shape and challenge our sense of self, encouraging a dialogue on the intersection of identity, belonging, and representation.
