Problem Parts

Hafsah A.

Graphite, digital editing (Procreate)

• Artist Statement

  It starts when you’re a child. As soon as you start noticing sideways glances, as soon as your body morphs and shifts- and you’re not allowed to wear shorts anymore. It starts when you’re a teenager- never look them in the eyes. Act polite but not too polite- or they’ll get the wrong idea. Don’t laugh too loud and don’t act too comfortable. It starts when you’re an adult, when suddenly heels and low cut shirts are the dress code- after all, it makes you appealing. They assume that you don’t work for your achievements- instead, they’re handed to you on a tarnished silver platter. My artwork represents the struggle that many girls go through, where they end up hating the bodies that should be respected and celebrated. Along with the lust for our bodies, it often feels like we’re being taken advantage of for our hearts too.

• Creative Statement

  In my opinion, creativity is the way humans thrive. We are the only species tempted and encouraged to create art, music, performances, simply out of our love for it. Creativity is a way to survive through self expression, or to help others survive by finding a familiar feeling.