Welcome Into My Living Room
Karman L.
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This piece fuses self-expression and my love for interior design. With the lesbian flag colors inspiring the color scheme of this room, I am challenging the idea that queer people must “come out” to the world, and demonstrating that we should let people whom we feel safe around and who respect us in instead. Our homes are physical spaces where we invite others in. This living room represents who I truly am in comparison to people’s judgments of me based on my outward appearance. If someone stood outside these walls, they would only be able to see a small portion of the room, the ceiling, through the clerestory windows. However, if someone stood inside this room, they would experience all the contrasting textures, varying furniture pieces, and vibrant colors, which illustrate my complexity as a human being. The large fireplace and sofa create an intimate gathering space, representing the warmth and comfort I feel with people I am close with. Next to the fireplace sits a vase of twigs that curve downwards, adding movement and texture to contrast the clean lines of the fireplace and wooden ledge. I used a dabbing stroke and a bright red-orange color for the carpet floor to imitate fire and symbolize the occasional feeling of life falling apart, which would be unknown to those on the outside looking in. Scattered around the room are delicate ceramic decorations and low-hanging glass light fixtures, representing my sensitivity and emotions. Only those whom I welcome into my living room would actually get to know me, including my strengths, weaknesses, feelings, and thoughts.
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Exploring and expressing my creativity brings me joy, fulfillment, and purpose. Creating 2D pieces allows me the freedom to communicate important messages and express who I am in interesting ways. I also love to design furniture and interiors that I think could enhance human lives and experiences.
