Decomposing Identity
The essential questions guiding this project were: How can relating human and natural experiences deepen our understanding of self? And What (if any) core elements of self are carried with us as we change? As I explored these questions I came upon the idea that the decomposition occurring on the forest floor could act as an analogy for trangender identity and transitioning. My identity as a genderfluid person is deeply linked to the land. I grew up playing in forests, scampering over moss covered boulders and under looming trees. This connection has heavily influenced my understanding of liminal spaces, such as transitioning. I see decomposing and decay as beautiful processes, however they are viewed as disgusting and revolting by many. Unfortunately, many also view trans people in this light. My piece works to weave trans identity and the natural process of decomposition together to show their beauty and necessity, dispelling the myth that they are something to turn away from.
Cyanotype & Indigo
I started this project by cyanotyping 4 portraits of fellow trans students at an art gap year program I attended. I coated the fabric in cyanotype dye, printed transparent negatives, and let them process in the California sun.
The backing and surrounding fabric was was hand dyed with indigo, its pattern was designed to represent the forest floor and the chaos there.
Embroidery
The front of the quilt was painstakingly decorated with sections of embroidered moss and lichen.
Quilting
I chose quilting as the medium of this piece because it physically demonstrates connection. In quilting, small fabric scraps are linked together with thread - just as communities are woven together by experience. I see the trans community and forest floor community as being connected by transition. Linked in liminality. Quilting is beautiful up close but it’s also important to see the larger picture that the lines create. See the broader pattern, embrace its nonlinear aspects.