Abstract

This thesis is an exploration of the reciprocal relationship between my identity and my work as an artist. As someone who identifies as queer and from a young age felt unloved and unwelcome, my work provides space for validation and empowerment. I utilize elements of fantasy and symbolism to explore the ever-expanding possibilities of allegory and queer figuration. Through my usage of portraiture and personal symbolism as well as my reinterpretations of Christian religious motifs, Greek mythology, and Mannerist art, I transform existing narratives to depict a multitude of characters that my work allows me to embody. In opening myself up, I express and question my understanding of "love" as it applies to a sense of communion through art and the idea of utopia while also making the necessary room for empathy and queer visibility. To this end, I reference my life experiences, thoughts, feelings, and artistic process in order to invite an intimate understanding of myself and my work.

Notes

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Graduation Date

2022

Semester

Spring

Advisor

Raimundi-Ortiz, Wanda

Degree

Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.)

College

College of Arts and Humanities

Department

School of Visual Arts and Design

Degree Program

Emerging Media; Studio Art and Design

Format

application/pdf

Identifier

CFE0009085; DP0026418

URL

https://purls.library.ucf.edu/go/DP0026418

Language

English

Release Date

May 2022

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Access Status

Masters Thesis (Open Access)

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