These Darla Jackson animal sculptures are deeply emotional.
The Philadelphia-based artist comments on her work, "My sculpture is an exploration of the human psyche in which I strive to show duality of emotions." To achieve this complex expression of emotion, the artist combines and juxtaposes identifiable objects with more abstract ideas. There is a heavy use of symbolism. The bunny rabbit is generally thought of as a coy, shy animal. When masked with an edgy, fear-inducing mask, the message becomes intensely different. Cute aesthetics mixed with dark accessories and harsh body language causes a strong curiosity and sense of mystery.
The bunnies are featured wearing crow masks or bandaging. With such suggestive titles as 'It Started at a Young Age' and 'What Are you Afraid Of,' the series of gypsum cement bunnies is mournfully nostalgic and bittersweet.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Emotional Sculptures
- Exploring duality of emotions through identifiable objects and abstract ideas in sculptures.
- Mixing Aesthetics
- Combining different and contrasting aesthetics creates a strong sense of curiosity and mystery.
- Symbolic Artwork
- Using heavily weighted symbolism to convey complex emotions in artwork.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Art
- Opportunities for artists to experiment with recognizable symbols and emotive sculpture techniques.
- Interior Design
- Sculptures that mix contrasting aesthetics can be incorporated into interior design for emotional appeal.
- Fashion
- Using symbols and mixed aesthetics in fashion design can create a curiosity in clothing.
