Shadows and Light
Kailum Graves
- Sitter: Kailum Graves
- Medium: Photograph
- Dimensions: 64cm x 63cm
- Representation: This artist represents themselves
About the artwork
Shadows and Light is Kailum Graves’ introspective self-portrait that delves into the complicated landscape of living with complex post-traumatic stress disorder.
The digital processing started with ten photographic self portraits taken in variable light conditions to capture different emotional states. “Using self-written code in Processing, a flexible software sketchbook and language for visual arts, I processed these images to emphasise the interplay of light and shadow. This was crucial in abstracting the raw images into more symbolic representations of the emotional states they depicted.”
Because the form of the face is unclear and it is a struggle to identity the facial features, it allows for a more nuanced reading of the portrait.
“The final piece is a complex tapestry of contrasts and subtle transitions, reflecting the delicate balance of vulnerability and resilience inherent in the human experience of complex PTSD.”
The dissolving and splintered image creates a deep-seated sense of anxiety. The diagonal hatched lines create movement and reinforce the tension and fragility of the portrait.
“Through meticulous layering and blending, I created a textured, almost tactile quality that mirrors the healing journey, and explores the depths of vulnerability and resilience inherent in the human spirit.”
About the artist
Kailum Graves is a multi-disciplinary conceptual artist, who delves deeply into the essence of digital artifacts. His art, writings, and curatorial endeavors explore the unseen structures of power. Stemming from his personal battle with complex post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression, Graves’ work addresses human themes through metaphors, images, dark humor, and symbolic expressions.
