Unit 3 Reflective Journal by Jialu Gu

jgu03202221 — 2023-06-06 12:36:10 UTC

What: This project initially explored and showcased my personal jouney of living with Ichthyosis, a uncommon skin condition that results in dry and scaly skin. It reveals the challenges I faced from both the condition itself and the lack of understanding from others. It narrates my journey from rejecting the relality to embracing my skin as a intergral part of who I am. The project aims to induce the audience to comtemplate and reflect upon the diverse tapestry of physical appearances, as well as the notions of nomality and abnomality.

The site: My own body( the affected lower leg skin)

How: During the research process, I employed auto-ethnography as my research method. In the visual aspects, I experimented with photography, sketches, print-making, and conducted numerous material tests. My plan is to construct an installation that utilizes diverse senses and materials to effectively convey the messages I aim to present, and offer a immersive space that better communicate what's it like to live in a different life.

Why/How I use my own experience to connect to the world: When we talk about chronic diseases, we tends to only think of things such as diabetes and heart diseases. However, skin, as our largest organ, we sometimes ignore those common skin conditions as chronic. Chronic skin conditions include ichthyosis, atopic eczema, petechiae and many more. While these skin conditions are usually not severe, they can still have a significant impact on one’s quality of life. The challenges faced by the people who carry these conditions do not only come from the conditions themselves but could also go beyond the conditions. They also arise from negative attitudes and misunderstandings of others towards these people. It is essential for the public to gain awareness and a deeper understanding of it. One of the aims of this project is to dispel misconceptions and judgemental views, such as associating it with poor hygiene.

People inhabit bodies of all types, whether they conform to societal ideals of beauty or deviate from them.

"Meys"

jgu03202221 — 2023-06-12 20:36:19 UTC

Who: Marguerite Humeau, a French artist living in London

What: The installation combines sound, moving images, and sculptures to take the audience on a journey into the hidden world of insects, which explores the concepts of interdependence and collective intelligence.

Why/Purpose: Guide the audience to reflects on the possibility of our own self-caused extinction as a species. She believes that insect societies have the potential to survive in our damaged environment, and they serve as a reminder for us to contemplate the power of interdependence and cooperation. By considering these traits, we may find a way to prevent our own impending demise. (Marguerite Humeau "Meys" white cube / bermondsey, 2023)

How: The immersive visual (large sulptures) and sound experience in this large space provides a tour into the secret lives of insects, allowing the audience for deep thinking.

Critical Position: Investigator (insects' behaviors), Educator

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https://artslondon-my.sharepoint.com/:v:/g/personal/j_gu0320222_arts_ac_uk/EbvMbD9qgqVOuP57bymWg28BgpW-iWWH4NqGc1jgyp-oOg

jgu03202221 — 2023-06-12 20:49:37 UTC

jgu03202221 — 2023-06-12 21:02:49 UTC

Self-discovery lab box
disregarded as it's hard to communcate my pupose.

jgu03202221 — 2023-06-12 21:02:57 UTC

The whole space design.

As the audience steps through the entrance and enters the space, their attention may be immediately drawn towards three 3D sculptures positioned strategically around a central table. These sculptures are visual representations of different phases of my personal journey, each has a sound device that plays recordings of my voice narrating the story. The auditory experience is further enriched with pre-recorded noises, such as the scratch of the skin or the application of moisturizer, creating an immersive atmosphere.

The central table acts as an archive section, adorned with a collection of photographs, objects from my daily life, and textual references, inviting the audience to delve deeper into the condition and gain a more comprehensive insight into my experiences.

This setup provides the audience with the freedom to engage with the artwork according to their own curiosity and allows for a dynamic interaction, where the visual and auditory elements blend seamlessly with the tangible archival information.

This approach was eventually disregarded considering about the amount of making and the short period of time. However, it might be a plan for my future works.

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-05 12:43:57 UTC

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-18 22:28:43 UTC

Investigation and outcome:

During the summer break, as my tattoo apprenticeship came to an end, I began working on clients and gained many tattooing experiences. One intriguing aspect I noticed was that nearly all my clients had what people perceived as imperfections on their skin—acne, moles, birthmarks, scars. Many of them lacked confidence due to these features. This realization inspired me to broaden my focus, aiming for a more genral approach so that a larger audience could relate to it.

Updated description:

This project draws inspiration from the enchanting allure of human skin. With a keen focus on the complexities of skin conditions, I explored the intricacies of diverse bodies and skins, transcending societal standards of beauty. Light clay was chosen as the material because of its unique ability to create a random and "imperfect" texture when two blocks are combined, resonating seamlessly with the content. The project highlighted the feelings and challenges experienced by individuals dealing with skin conditions. By doing so, it encourages the viewers to ponder the rich tapestry of physical appearances, challenging conventional ideas of normality and embracing the nuances of “abnormality”, sparking contemplation and reflection.

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-18 22:46:27 UTC

To depict my personal journey visually, I crafted an artwork using light clay. This piece symbolizes the concept of integration, mirroring my own experiences transitioning from unawareness of the condition, to denial and rejection, to a more rational approach, and finally acceptance. Light clay was chosen for its unique quality of randomness when combining two blocks, which resonated with the content. The abstract and light-colored visual language employed in the artwork served as a means to convey the intricate yet delicate nature of the human skin.

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In the making

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Outcomes

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Abnormal Skin #2

Layers and layers of skin underneath one's body

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Abnormal Skin #3

Dripping body lotion on the skin

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Abnormal Skin #4

Scratches of the skin

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Abnormal Skin Series #1

Samples of abnormal skin

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jgu03202221 — 2023-10-19 00:16:18 UTC

In a tutorial discussion of the possibilities of my project with Professor Gareth Barnett, I got the inspiration of turning the making process as the outcome as well. This approach seemed promising in effectively conveying my intentions. So, I began capturing the process through photography and video.

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The video not only depicted a partial view of my artwork creation process but also incorporated metaphorical elements. While the spherical "meat ball" appearance symbolizes human skin, the punches and destruction represent the challenges faced by people dealing with skin conditions.

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-19 00:31:41 UTC

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-19 00:33:56 UTC

Due to the strong visual connection between my skin condition and fish scales, I participated in a fish skin study that drew inspiration from the indigenous Hezhou community, one of the smallest ethnic groups in China. During the study, I learned the complete process of traditional fish skin coloring and molding techniques.

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-19 00:34:18 UTC

Drying the colored fish skin on wood board

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My outcomes made from fish skin.

Incorporating autoethnography

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-19 00:37:38 UTC

To integrate the autoethnographic study I conducted in unit 2, I attempted to extract specific lines from my writing and incorporated them into the fish skin, creating a storybook with a texture that resonates with the content.

Reflection

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-19 00:37:53 UTC

Upon reflection, I realized the outcome felt too straghtforward, and lacked visual appeal. Consequently, I decided to abandon this approach in the end.

Commerce Group

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-19 00:39:24 UTC

PDG Commerce

You will be using existing online tools to create a commercialised version of your existing practice. What can you subtract from the work you’ve already made to merchandise your project?

By using on demand production, you will create a collaborative brand that you’ll promote collectively. How can you use your skills as an illustrator to advertise your products to new audiences and engage with your target market?

You will also be given a physical space; how could you translate this into a real-life event? How can you use illustration to bring an online shopping experience into 3 dimensions? How can you use illustration to elevate the space, brand and products?

Running alongside the event and online store you will also prepare a proposal document with an aim of finding stockists for work you’ve already produced. This will require you researching what spaces may be most suitable for the work and finding the right contacts to get your work seen. It doesn’t have to be in London, but the location must be properly reasoned.

Keywords: Activation, Promotion, Elevation, Commercialisation, Collaboration and DISSEMINATION.

Why I chose Commerce

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-19 00:39:55 UTC

Submissions

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-19 00:42:52 UTC

~~- Realized Outcomes of Major Project~~

~~- Reflective Journal (Padlet)~~

~~- AV Presentation (7-minute audiovisual presentation)~~

~~- Professional Portfolio (text and image PDF)~~

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-19 00:45:13 UTC

Product 1: Abnormal Skin Sculpture T-shirt

Description: Layers of melting skin T-shirt in the Abnormal Skin Series by Jialu Gu.

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Product 2: Abnormal Skin Sculpture Tote Bag 1

Description: Skin with dripping lotion n the Abnormal Skin Series by Jialu Gu.

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-19 00:48:53 UTC

For the group shop, I used printsocial to create these T-shirts and totebags. These are great starting points for me to think about how I can commercialize my project into actual products.

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-20 20:26:43 UTC

Critical Position:
1. Investigator (document the reality, reveal the truth, reproduce events based on the information I gathered, relatively unbidased way to communicate to the world.)
2. Educator (inform, illuminate, explain, create a space for knowlegde exchange, make connections)

01

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I placed the tracing paper on my leg and captured the intricate textures of my skin. I drew a circle of eyes with different directions to represent the judgemental looks from people I've experienced.

02

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More textures in different area.

03

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A sketch about scratching.

04

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-20 20:29:59 UTC

A sketch about textures using colored pencils and also about people's stare.

Reflection

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-20 20:30:07 UTC

I drew the second two sketches first, but they didn't evoke the emotional response I desired. Upon reflection, I realized that the main reason for this unsuccessful outcome was that I had drawn from my imagination instead of capturing the essence of reality, making them less relatable.

Therfore, I later used tracing paper to literally "trace" the texture of my skin. Although they were quick sketches but it turned out to be satisfied. By tracing, it also matches my critical position as an investigator as well.

Photography

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-20 20:30:22 UTC

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-20 20:30:28 UTC

In order to record the reality further more, I documented my condition and some of my daily routines using photography.

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jgu03202221 — 2023-10-20 20:30:41 UTC

As right now is spring, the skin on my lower leg shows reduced dryness due to the warmer weather. However, the presence of white flakes and the scaly pattern is still noticeable.

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-20 20:30:48 UTC

I constantly feels dry and ichy especially at night. These are the marks and scars resulted from my scratches.

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-20 20:30:53 UTC

The amount of moisturizer I used each time. I usually apply moistuizer two times a day, when after applied, I let it dry for about half an hour. It is the only way to keep my skin from flaky and ichyness.

Reflection

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-20 20:31:17 UTC

Among the photographs, the one featuring moisturizers achieved the most impactful result, naturally conveying a strong sense of narrative. It directly communicates the challenges faced when living with the condition to the audience. In contrast, the other photographs primarily focus on the condition itself, generating less narrative impact.

Improvements in the future:
1. Maybe include gestures (the way I scratch)
2. Don't do too closed up photographs

Gelatine Experiment

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-20 20:31:48 UTC

Sketches

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Fish skin study

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jgu03202221 — 2023-10-20 20:36:48 UTC

Inspired by the tracing sketches, I came across the idea of applying a thin layer of gelatin gel on my skin to get the vivid look of the skin patterns. In doing so, my intention is to explore a more artistic and creative approach to "representing" reality.

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-20 20:37:00 UTC

Materials: Hot water, Gelatine Powder, Oil, Food coloring pack.
Ratio of water and powder: 1:1

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Hot water mixed with gelatine powder

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I used a brush to apply the liquid

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Dryed outcomes which successfully captured the pattern.

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Experimenting with other colour and materials

Reflection

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-20 20:37:43 UTC

The outcomes turned out to be visually fascinating. However, the down side is that it is really hard to create large samples as it will be difficult to peel off. Another problem is that when the material was completely dry, the edges curled up and the texture became tough, making it hard to mix with other materials.
I'm going to change the formula or water/powder ratio to make a change if I want to use the material in the final design.

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-20 20:48:05 UTC

In the color and style study, I researched Hilma Af Klint works as I was fasinated by the reduced abstract language as well as the light, pastal colors. She used circles, orbits, lines to express interconnectivity with all forms of life. I intended to apply a similar style in my work.

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-20 20:48:34 UTC

Tamsin van Essen

Who: Tamsin van Essen

What: The artist used the specially textured vase to communicate to the audience about the skin conditions.

Why: Similar to inherit a precious family heirloom like a vase, one may also inherit the tendency for conditions such as acne or ichthyosis. The ceramic work delves into the social stigmatization of diseases and challenges our modern preoccupation with flawlessness and physical beauty. (Essen, no date)

How: Connecting the relationship between the heirloom and skin conditions.

Initial Idea

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Updated

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Sculpture

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Painting

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Installation

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Design of the sculpture

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Reflection of the project so far

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-22 17:11:12 UTC

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Problem:
After receiving feedbacks from both my peers and professors, I noticed that viewers often became confused about the project's theme upon their initial encounter with the artworks. Upon reflection, I realized that certain pieces didn't convey the intended message clearly, especially in the way I presented them during the work-in-progress show. This realization was contrary to my original objective.

Solving:
As all the elements of my art were derived from the skin, I began thinking the idea of "returning" the artwork back to the skin. I believed that the chemistry formed between the artwork and the skin could provide the audience with the necessary context for the work, sparking contemplation and deeper understanding.

Audio Visual Prensentation

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jgu03202221 — 2023-10-24 14:36:51 UTC

~~Last piece making~~
~~Tutorial~~
~~Prototypes1~~
~~Video shooting~~
~~Setup for the WIP show~~
~~Product design~~
~~Prototypes2~~
~~Buying material for product producing~~
~~T-shirt design~~
~~T-shirt buying~~
~~Art gallery & Exhibition~~
~~Shop Visits~~

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Broaden the topic

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Problem and solving:

The second issue I encountered was that many people couldn't relate to my original topic because it was quite niche. And as my tattoo apprenticeship came to an end, I began working on clients and gained many tattooing experiences. One intriguing aspect I noticed was that nearly all my clients had "imperfections" on their skin—acne, moles, birthmarks, scars. Some of them lacked confidence due to these features. This realization inspired me to broaden my focus, aiming for a more genral approach so that a larger audience could relate to it.

jgu03202221 — 2023-10-30 22:52:24 UTC

Abnormal Skin #1

Abnormal "spikes"(skin conditions)

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Poster for the shop event

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~~Design of the photos~~
~~Tutorial~~
~~Shop material prep~~
~~Poster making~~
~~Instagram promotion~~
~~References of the portfolio~~
~~Pics sorting~~
~~Office Hour~~
~~Card board making~~
~~10th Shop lauching day~~
~~Portfolio outlines~~
~~Design of the portfolio~~

Incorporation

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Version 1

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Version 2

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jgu03202221 — 2023-10-31 23:02:36 UTC

I created a prototype of a mini book with fish-skin. I worted my own experiences on the fish skin and did a little bit of drawing. However, this was disregarded as it didn't achieve the effect I desired.

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Prototype

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-01 17:33:09 UTC

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-01 17:54:14 UTC

While the first serious investigate and reproduce the skin conditions, the second serious highlighted the feelings and challenges experienced by individuals dealing with those conditions.

Light clay was chosen for its unique quality of randomness when combining two blocks, which resonated with the content. The abstract and light-colored visual language employed in the artwork served as a means to convey the intricate yet delicate nature of the human skin.

From untouchable to touchable

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-01 18:12:49 UTC

I selected the commerce group for my project because my project focus on skin issues, aiming to raise public awareness and offer support and confidence to those who are suffering. Incorporating elements from my project into everyday products is a great way to extend the project's purpose to a broader audience.

Moreover, I intend to contribute to the skin condition charity by donating all the proceeds earned from the shop I established. I find great significance in this gesture, as it resonates deeply with my values and beliefs.

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-01 18:24:06 UTC

In response to commercializing certain aspects of the project, I crafted a series of jewelry, including necklaces and bracelets, using the same material as my project outcomes. The choice of jewelry was due to its close connection with the project's concept—they are worn on the skin, aligning with the project's theme. Keeping the group project's purpose in mind, I opted for simplicity and efficiency in the designs, ensuring they were easy to create and could be mass-produced.

Investigator& Author

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Tate Morden Shop

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Not Just A Shop

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The Waste Store

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Process

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Outcomes

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Outcomes

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Research and References

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-02 00:24:14 UTC

Website Form

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jgu03202221 — 2023-11-02 00:29:23 UTC

I decided to create a website for my artworks and products because I believe it aligns perfectly with the project's objectives. By establishing an online presence, I can reach a wider audience and effectively communicate the essence of my project. This digital space also allows me to share the stories behind my creations, enhancing the viewers' understanding and connection with the product.

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jgu03202221 — 2023-11-07 23:20:00 UTC

Product 3: Abnormal Skin Sculpture Tote Bag 3

Description: Skin conditions in the Abnormal Skin Series by Jialu Gu.

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jgu03202221 — 2023-11-07 23:28:36 UTC

Upon reflection, this way the artworks were presented made a significant impact, offering more context for the audience to comprehend the pieces. However, a limitation would be that only a partial body was showcased due to model's requirements.

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-07 23:36:24 UTC

In my personal project's store, I not only crafted jewelry but also curated a range of everyday merchandise items. I selected these objects because of their compact size, accessibility, and practicality in daily life. This choice aligns seamlessly with my concept, transitioning from the intangible to the tangible realm, allowing my ideas to become more touchable and accessible to a wider audience.

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-07 23:39:27 UTC

In the technical part, I established a business account and connected it to my Big Cartel shop website. Then, I created products on Printful and successfully launched them on the Big Cartel shop website.

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-07 23:39:43 UTC

Products

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Website

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jgu03202221 — 2023-11-07 23:43:10 UTC

I designed the page to be as simple as possible for the products to stand out.

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-07 23:44:52 UTC

For the promotion and reaching out to the audience, I posted the shop poster and shop page on instagram for both the group and my personal.

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-07 23:57:39 UTC

Appear offline (no date) Appear Offline. Available at: https://appear-offline.com/ (Accessed: 12 November 2023).
Essen, T. van (no date) Tamsin van Essen, MEDICAL HEIRLOOMS. Available at: https://www.tamsinvanessen.com/#/medical-heirlooms/ (Accessed: 28 May 2023).
Famous artists artwork & merchandise: National Gallery Shop (no date) National Gallery. Available at: https://shop.nationalgallery.org.uk/artist-ranges.html (Accessed: 12 November 2023).
Gannon , R. and Fauchon, M. (no date) Illustration research methods. Available at: https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/illustration-research-methods-9781350051447/ (Accessed: 09 November 2023).
Intertapes(no date). Available at: https://intertapes.net/ (Accessed: 12 November 2023).
Marguerite Humeau ‘Meys’ white cube / bermondsey: (2023) Flash Art. Available at: https://flash---art.com/2023/04/marguerite-humeau/ (Accessed: 28 May 2023).

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Reference

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Reaching out - Notjustashop

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jgu03202221 — 2023-11-09 01:06:11 UTC

Reaching out - storestore

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-09 01:07:01 UTC

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-09 01:10:19 UTC

The purpose

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-09 11:10:28 UTC

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-09 11:11:06 UTC

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-09 22:58:43 UTC

Background:

The project was initially inspired by my own experience of living with Ichthyosis, a uncommon skin condition that results in dry and scaly skin; as well as my profession as a tattoo artist which involves constant interaction with human skin. Through both, I have developed a deep appreciation for the diverse textures and nuances of skin. This dual perspective—both as someone living with a skin condition and as an artist intimately engaged with human skin—became the driving force behind this project.

What:

This project explores the human skin. With a keen focus on the complexities of skin conditions, it investigates and reproduces the intricacies of diverse skins conditions, transcending societal standards of beauty.

Reseach Methods:

Auto-ethnography was used in the initial stages to record my personal journey which helped the project to "reproduce" the moments of living with a condition.

"Illustration throughout the process" was consistently integrated into the entire project, involving material and medium tests, as well as focussing and documenting the creative process.

Outcomes:

While the first serious of the outcomes investigate and reproduce the skin conditions, the second serious highlighted the feelings and challenges experienced by individuals dealing with those conditions.

Material:

Purpose:

The project aims to encourages the viewers to ponder the rich tapestry of physical appearances, challenging conventional ideas of normality and embracing the nuances of “abnormality”.

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-09 23:32:18 UTC

"Research conducted and performed through the act of illustration practice. This might involve: creative experimentation across materials, tools and processes; development work exploring different and/or innovative ways in which illustration may be performed and/or operate..." (p14, Gannon & Fauchon)

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-09 23:32:49 UTC

Research

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-09 23:33:44 UTC

Practice

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-09 23:38:38 UTC

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-09 23:55:29 UTC

The book "Illustration Research Method" defines illustration as more than just transforming textual information into visual infomation which is outcome-based—it emphasizes the process of translating. This perspective aligns perfectly with my personal approach to illustration. I came to understand the connection between myself and the skin, drawing inspiration for my project. Much like our course emphasizes in the first unit, it's about thinking through making.

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-09 23:57:34 UTC

The purpose of the shop extends beyond translating my illustration practice into tangible outcomes; it's also dedicated to raising public awareness. Therefore, I have decided to contribute all the proceeds earned from the shop to the British Skin Foundation. It is the only UK charity that raises money to fund research into all types of skin diseases, including skin cancer.

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-10 01:13:41 UTC

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-10 01:13:52 UTC

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-10 01:14:08 UTC

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-10 01:14:11 UTC

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-10 01:14:13 UTC

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-10 01:14:15 UTC

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-11 01:06:43 UTC

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-11 01:06:53 UTC

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-11 01:06:58 UTC

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-11 01:07:01 UTC

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-11 01:07:08 UTC

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-11 01:07:14 UTC

Logo for the shop by Anny

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-11 01:07:55 UTC

Curation and event day

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-11 01:08:40 UTC

jgu03202221 — 2023-11-11 01:15:46 UTC

The exhibition day was truly enjoyable. Many people came and got interested in our works.

Nevertheless, a notable issue arose as we only had cardboard versions of the T-shirts, leading to feedback from some attendees who were unable to visualize the actual appearance. This concern should be taken into account for future similar activities to enhance the overall experience for participants. But overall, this is a good experience, and we have gained substantial insights into team organization, curating our works, and promoting ourselves.