The Bittersweet Process

This is the activity goes with my solo exhibit “ A Bittersweet Diaspora.” The activity was part of my workshop that was conducted at the CICA Museum’s Art Conference in South Korea.

Below is a timeline of my life and what works of art resulted from my experiences. This activity is meant to breakdown my thought process and the concepts are from my fine art and art therapy background.

How to generate a art prompt: In the space below:

  1. Think of any 1-3 memories that have happened in your life so far, it can be a minor memory/ thought or a major event.

  2.  Mark them on the timeline.

  3.  Pick one of the memories and write a short description for the memory below.

  4.  Focus on basics like " Who?, What?,When?, Where?, How?"

  5.  Make a small sketch that represents the memory.

  6.  Mark or list the colors you associate with the memory.

Good job!- If you finish early, you can read the reflection section below. 


 


Born                                          Now        


 






Description of your memory:


Drawing:








Part 2:

Think about how comfortable you are with the memory. How comfortable are you with telling others? Do you want to abstract it?

  1. Try to rewrite the description in a more poetic way. Keep in mind: Diction, Rhythm, Alliteration, or poetry structures that you like.

  2. Re-create the sketch more formally, in your terms( based on your comfort level). It’s recommended to try new materials.

  3. Apply color(s) to the sketch (if needed).

  4. If you liked the process, keep going. You can also list thoughts about the future.

  5. Title your work. Does the title help tell the story? 

Reflection : Reflect on the art-making process

  • How does it feel to talk about it? How would you describe your memory?

  • Were the drawings done in your usual style?

  • What kind of color palettes did you use?

  • What saturation levels did you use?

  • What perspective are we viewing from?

  • How do you feel about sharing your work?

  • What was the process like?

  • Did you notice any parallels or repeating themes in the timeline events?

  • Why did you choose your material(s)?

  • How do you think the work will be interpreted in a foreign setting vs. your local setting?

  • Do the materials represent anything? How do they affect how the artwork is interpreted?

  • Was the process quick or lengthy?

  • How do you feel about the scale?