Fire
Stella C.
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When I drew this piece, I focused on the parallels between how humanity has influenced fire, and my relationship with my identity. In many natural environments, fire is a necessary element to burn away the old vegetation and allow for new growth. Humanity has tried to eliminate wildfires from many ecosystems because we don't understand their purpose. They seem destructive and monstrous to us, and I relate this to my own struggles with personhood. There are so many aspects of my identity that I've suppressed because I didn't understand them. But in order to feel at peace, I need to come to terms with those parts of myself. They are a critical part to my ecosystem. When I drew this self-portrait, I tried not to change any detail of myself. I didn't try to make my nose bigger, my skin paler, or my hair curlier. I wanted it to be a reflection of who I truly am.
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My art my way of expressing myself, visualizing the changes that have happened as I've matured, and it's also a source of pride. Drawing has allowed me to appreciate myself and the world around me as it is, instead of trying to constantly change and be unhappy.
