Annelise Smith's Art portfolio : Studio Art I

Title: Scarlet Study 6

Media: Photography

Size: 17" x 11"

Date: March 2015

I wanted to get into the character of a 20’s Hollywood scarlet. Show that attitude of “I’m better then you, you’re not worth my time.” In some I wore a mask to show that the scarlet is a little two-faced, that there may be more that’s going on underneath. Finally, I took some shots out of focus to show that to her, days just seem to blur together. For the Flapper side, I wanted to show a more carefree character. While the scarlet was under all this pressure to look perfect, the flapper could be glamours and have a good time.

Title: The Trap

Media: Mixed

Size:

Date: March 2015

(See Home Page for more shots of this work)

My work is a very personal piece, based on my personal experiences alone. This sculpture is focused on anxiety and how it makes me feel. I tried to personify it in a way. I often forget my anxiety is invisible to the naked eye. I tried to pour as much emotion as my talents would allow into this piece in hopes that even a tenth of what I feel can reach out to others who have the pleasure of only having to deal with it every now and then and in healthy doses.

My anxiety is my biggest enemy. It holds me back from what I want to do and who I want to be. I often lay awake at night and wonder the type of person I would be if I didn’t have that clear glass in front of me, the hand over my mouth, the voice whispering in my ear causing my hands to shake and my stomach to lunge. I know for sure she’d be a more active person and a lot happier.

Most days my anxiety is like a clear barrier that prevents me from connecting to anyone or reaching out. It is also the greatest silencer. “My opinion doesn’t matter.” “No one cares.” “You’re being dramatic.” “Just get over it.” Those phrases said by myself and others play on repeat every time I open my mouth. My anxiety is always there, like I’m being constantly watched. The isolation, silence, and paranoia combine into a suffocating box. I understand I have no one to blame but myself, and I am trying. I am trying to take things one step at a time.