Fish Tank
Sarah T.
Watercolor, watercolor paper
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This piece reflects on a cherished memory from my childhood when my mother would style my hair with braids, ties, and the addition of accessories. However, amidst the warmth of her worn hands, the pain from pulling my hair tightly was so intense that I found myself in tears almost every morning. I understand now that her actions were driven by love and I admire her strength. Yet, as a child, I struggled to perceive it that way. In my young mind, I felt akin to the koi fish that my mom always loved. She adored them, not for any emotional bond she shared with them, but simply because they were beautiful and represented wealth and prosperity. Consequently, I believed that the act of styling my hair was not an expression of love and understanding but rather an attempt to make me beautiful like a koi fish on display. This painting serves as a means for me to reconcile the gap in understanding—from my pain to hers—and to explore the complexities of my relationship with my mother. Furthermore, it serves as a story for others who also faced challenging relationships with their parents due to a difference in values and experiences.
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Painting and drawing captivated me because it granted me the power to create stories, to communicate, and to create worlds beyond reality. Through art, I conveyed my emotions, ideas, and heart to the world.
