INSTINCT
Project details
- Year
- 2024
- Programme
- Bachelor – Illustration
- Practices
- Honours Programme
- Minor
- Visual Culture
‘INSTINCT’ is an exploration of the psychedelic aesthetic through the mediums of illustration and installation, by visual artist Carin Bejenaru. Carin’s work revolves around themes of perception, connection, and spiritual exploration. Through visionary imagery, mystical symbolism, and sacred geometry, she is seeking to present life through a lens of heightened consciousness.
THEMES AND MOTIFS
Nature as Sanctified Space:
The first illustration explores themes of nature, portraying it as a realm of wonder, sanctity, and belonging. It delves into the notion of nature as a sacred entity that deserves reverence and protection, allowing for reflection on the intricate relationship between humans and nature, advocating for an ethos of responsible symbiosis.
Human Essence and Identity:
The second illustration delves into the introspective theme of the essence of humanity, trying to answer the fundamental question of what it means to be human, transcending conventional boundaries and exploring alternative speculative manifestations of human experience. This piece relies on the transformative power of self-awareness and introspection, encouraging contemplation on the complexities of human identity, and engagement in a deeper understanding of our inner being. It is an exploration of the essence of the soul in its purest form, freed from the complexities of individual experiences and upbringing.
Ultimate Consciousness:
The third and final illustration represents life itself: abstract, complex, profound. It serves as a speculative reflection on the essence of being and the fundamental nature of reality, delving into the exploration of transcendental themes and focusing on profound connection with existence.
CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
‘INSTINCT’ reflects the general resurgence of interest in psychedelic art and its relevance in contemporary culture. By drawing on influences from Native Indigenous art, Eastern mysticism, and the psychedelic movement of the 1960s, Carin creates a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern existential questions – a dialogue between past and present.
In a world increasingly dominated by technology and social fragmentation, ‘INSTINCT’ is a call to reconnect with our deeper selves and the natural world. It encourages viewers to embark on their own journeys of introspection and self-discovery, fostering a sense of unity and understanding. The exhibition is a testament to the power of art as a medium for social change, advocating for a more harmonious relationship with nature, with each other, and with ourselves.
