_____ (the blanket)
_____ (the blanket) is an active installation piece that explores the crucial concept of self-compassion and its role in fostering a sense of well-being and mental health. The piece emphasizes the significance of being present in the moment and taking time for oneself.
During moments of emotional vulnerability, we often worsen the situation by placing ourselves under scrutiny and labeling our incapability, sadness, confusion, and anxiety as signs of weakness. While we are often told that we are the center of everything and in charge of our decisions and consequences, there are situations where we are truly powerless and incapable, yet too proud to accept it and simply let it be.
_____ (the blanket), which breaths peacefully, mimicking the healthy movement of our lungs, and feels like a living skin, serves as a tool for promoting awareness of our egos and acceptance of our vulnerability. It encourages audiences to take a moment to breathe and be present in the current moment while deconstructing their perspective of control/surrender, subject/object, and activeness/passiveness. The work describes feelings of kindness, compassion, and self-forgiveness and hopes to envelop one's fragility to ensure that one receives the time one needs, which is an essential component of a healthy and fulfilled life.
Technique
The technology inside the blanket is a 'soft robot', a silicon-based robot that can be moved by using air pressure. The robot is shaped in a hand-like form, the fingers of the hand can be moved upwards to hug the center of the palm when receiving the air pressure that is sent from a person who sits on the palm part. The cover of the soft robot that is seen by visitors is made from natural rubber that looks like human skin to portray the idea of body, home, and mind connection.
Materials
Liquid silicon
Ribbons
Glue gun
Cardboards
1/8” PVC tubes
Half yoga ball
Liquid natural latex