Orla Cook, Live Updates, mixed media collage and acrylic, $250

Orla Cook

Youth Arts Collective

Junior

I use art as a way to voice my frustration at the world for its consistent inaction and desire to look away. My work often centers on politics and the current social injustices that exist. 

I typically work with either acrylic or watercolor as I enjoy bright colors in my art as a contrast to the message it often portrays. When working in watercolors I prefer the art to be softer and gentle, akin to the style of a children’s book. I use acrylic for my more controversial political statements because the medium lends itself well to the fact that the consequences of many injustices are also permanent. This piece was challenging for me as I have never done a painted portrait before and each time I put brush to paint I learnt a new lesson and found another frustration. 

This artwork comes out of the conflict in Israel and Palestine and how it is reported, the stories devastating and overwhelming. Looking at all the constant media updates I feel as helpless as a small child. This conflict has caused many emotions to stir up inside of me but I know the one thing I mustn't do is turn away and avert my gaze. I want the audience to fully look at what I have created and feel all of the emotions that come with it, because to avert your gaze is to ignore the humanity in others.

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Zylee Diaz