Dissociation
Building this sculpture came from me trying to illustrate the feelings that flashbacks elicit in people. Because I wanted the viewer to relate to this piece in their own way and make their own interpretations, I tried to keep the meaning of my project vague. It did not occur to me until after my installation was done, and I had written my paper, that I had failed to communicate why this piece was so personal. I was afraid, but I did not know what I was afraid of. I realized that it was hard for me to explain this piece to people who asked because I was not yet prepared to truly be vulnerable. I believe this caused my explanation to seem redundant and superficial.
While I still feel hesitant, it is easier for me to share my experience. Now, I am starting to heal and am no longer willing to hide from my feelings. The flashbacks that I experience stem from being sexually assaulted two years ago. Through this project, I was able to turn my focus from the flashbacks to using space to visually symbolize what I and many others may feel.
Maria Reveca Martinez ‘21
Advisor: Marina Mangubi
All images copyright © 2021 Maria Reveca Martinez. All rights reserved.
Dissociation, 1hr 34min documentary film (condensed version), 2021
Dissociation (sculpture/installation), nylon screen, string, tape.
Dissociation (details), nylon screen, string, tape.
