Hello everyone,
I am beyond excited to share the beginning of a deeply personal and meaningful art installation project that has been brewing in my mind for some time now. 'Flickering Souls: Illuminating ALS' is officially in the works, and I can hardly contain my enthusiasm as we embark on this journey together.
A Vision Takes Shape
A few years ago, just weeks before my 34th birthday, I received a life-changing diagnosis of ALS. As an artist, I’ve always channeled my emotions and experiences into my work, and this diagnosis was no different. It has been a transformative journey, one that has reshaped how I create and what I aim to communicate through my art. The idea for 'Flickering Souls' stemmed from a desire to visually capture the progressive nature of ALS and the profound impact it has on individuals and their families.
The Concept
'Flickering Souls' will feature a 16x16 LED matrix grid, each square an 8-inch individually backlit lithophane. The lithophanes will depict the faces of ALS patients, including myself, with vivid detail at the top gradually becoming less defined towards the bottom. This artistic choice symbolizes the progressive nature of ALS, as the disease gradually robs individuals of their motor functions and independence.
The lighting effects play a crucial role in conveying the project's message. The sequence of black squares with silhouettes falling to the ground, pushing illuminated squares off the edge, is a poignant representation of the loss of motor neuron connections. This visual metaphor aims to evoke empathy, raise awareness, and spark meaningful conversations about ALS.
The Journey Begins
I am thrilled to start creating lithophanes of other people with ALS. Each piece will be a tribute to their strength, resilience, and unique journey with the disease. Capturing their likeness and stories in these intricate lithophanes feels like a great honor and a significant responsibility.
As we begin this project, I am filled with a sense of purpose and excitement. The process of designing, sculpting, and illuminating each lithophane is not just an artistic endeavor but a heartfelt tribute to the ALS community. Through 'Flickering Souls,' I hope to shine a light on the realities of living with ALS and to foster a deeper understanding and empathy among viewers.
Moving Forward
I look forward to sharing updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and personal stories from the incredible individuals who will be featured in this installation. Your support and engagement mean the world to me as we bring 'Flickering Souls' to life.
Thank you for joining me on this journey.
Let's illuminate the path forward together.
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