As a woman, the significance of hair in defining beauty and identity cannot be understated. Regardless of color or style, healthy and well-maintained hair plays a vital role in a woman's overall aesthetic. It serves as a powerful representation of how we perceive ourselves as beautiful, enabling us to choose styles and colors that align with our personal preferences and emphasize our individuality. Moreover, hair has a remarkable connection to realms beyond the physical, a concept explored in various cultures. I will delve into my inspirations behind a series of art pieces, where hair becomes the medium of self-expression, conveying a story that might otherwise remain concealed.
In Japanese, the kanji 髪, pronounced "kami," represents hair. It is intriguing to note that the kanji for "spirit" (神) is also pronounced "kami." The term "kami" itself holds a sense of mystery, with its origins being subject to various interpretations. D.C. Holtom, in his article on the meaning of Kami, highlights the difficulties in defining the word, presenting multiple possible origins.
One intriguing association arises from the similarity between the word "mirror" (Kagami) and "kami." Yamazaki Ansai wrote:
The heart of God (kami) bright mirror (kagami) without a single Speck of cloudiness. a metaphorical expression of this, the use of kagami arose. then the middle ga was dropped, giving the form kami.
This connection between mirrors and spirits establishes a parallel between hair and the reflection of one's spirit. The Hair as a Mirror of Spirit and Character Just as a mirror reflects one's physical appearance, hair can be seen as a mirror of one's spirit and character. The symbolism associated with mirrors and spirits lends weight to the notion that our hair carries a significant part of our essence. In Japanese culture, superior beings such as chiefs, administrators, and governors were referred to as "kami." The highest position and the hair on our heads share this association with the term "kami."
The initial idea behind the "Savina" collection was to introduce the artist herself through collages featuring her hair entwined within them. In this creative endeavor, the artist's hair becomes the paint, the ink, and the brushstroke. Each strand of hair, with its unique expression and arrangement, captures a moment in time and tells its own story. Perhaps this story is one that the artist cannot put into words or one that reveals a part of herself she has been shyly concealing. It could be the whispers of her hair that a lover, consumed by love, yearns to hear in their heart.
The inspiration for my art pieces emerged during a period when I realized that my identity and sense of self were being suffocated under the weight of societal expectations. It was painful to witness others presumptuously asserting their understanding of who I was and who I should be, dictating my actions and behaviors. These individuals showed no genuine interest in getting to know me, nor did they attempt to understand my likes and feelings. Instead, they formed their own perception of me, using inadequate fragments and scraps of understanding to construct a version of me that suited their convenience. This experience deeply wounded my sense of identity.
Gradually, I succumbed to the pressure and adopted the new identity that had been thrust upon me. I began conforming to the wants and desires, the character that had been assigned to me. Being myself felt wrong and shameful as if my true identity was unacceptable. Thinking my own thoughts and wanting what I truly desired seemed devoid of a future. The weight of conforming to societal expectations often leads to disappointment, as those who are dissatisfied with their own lives strive to impose their discontent onto others.
Yet, the essence of the kami, the spirit within me, is resilient and powerful. It found its way to liberation, breaking free from the constraints of societal expectations. The art pieces I created stand as a testament to my newfound freedom. My spirit, intertwined with my hair, serves as a symbol of my true self. Despite the challenges life presents, it is essential to never forget who we truly are and to embrace our true spirit, no matter the circumstances.
The artistic exploration of hair as a reflection of my spirit and identity encapsulates the profound connection between my inner self and outward appearance. In this series of collages, I utilize my hair as a medium for self-expression, unraveling stories that might otherwise remain untold. The concept of kami, with its associations to both hair and spirit, adds a layer of depth and mystery to my artistic endeavor.
Moreover, these artworks symbolize my journey of self-discovery and the liberation I found by embracing my true identity. In a world that often tries to mold us according to its expectations, it is crucial for me to remain steadfast in my authenticity and hold onto my true spirit.
Through these art pieces, I invite others to reflect upon their own identities, the power of self-expression, and the beauty that lies in embracing our true selves. Hair, once seen as merely an aesthetic aspect, becomes a profound symbol of personal strength and individuality. It serves as a reminder that our true spirit cannot be extinguished and that our authentic selves are worth celebrating and cherishing, no matter the challenges we face.
Be yourself!
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