In this work you see two mirrored figures – self-portraits – lying in relaxed states. In a vivid, organic yet fantastical setting, the pose is both lucid and dreamlike. The subject is gazing at their phone. Often the impact of phones and technology on people is criticised as detrimental. This work explores how the phone and technology has actually, for many of us, been a tool of positive transformation.

 

This is especially the case for me, as someone who grew up in a small island state in Barbados. I’m filled with pride in my country – as I am surrounded by the flowers that I grew up amongst. And yet technology has made it possible for us to connect beyond borders, imagine and bring to life visions otherwise beyond our reach, and explore and express the different identities that exist within us. This is represented in the warm orange glow behind the head, speaking to the continuous transformations of the mind through sunrise and sunset.

 

Across the mirrored, repeated figures, you see the internal transformation manifested through the external transformation of the blue dotted skin. 

 

For me the blue dots and transformations have meant both self realisation and the use of an organic armor, of scales, that help me thrive in different settings - speaking to the transformation I also experience as I leave and come back to Barbados. Sometimes we are one thing in one space and something else in another. How can we be our authentic, best selves in all spaces? The digital world allows us to explore that.

 

As the blue dots merge with my body, they show how we bring new shape and light to who we truly are through how we use technology to transform our horizons, no matter how far we go.

 

I hope that as you see my journey, it invites you to consider your own - and the opportunity you have to transform into the person you want to be. 

 

The infinite journey of our lives.