Clarissa Beas

Bonded for Life, 2024

My project explores the ideas of identity, memory, and the act of reminiscing. Relationships present in life have an effect and ultimately shape who you are as a person. This piece dives into the relationship between pets and their owners, and how it grows stronger over time. More specifically, how it shapes the individual when their pet is no longer with them. The medium used to create this artwork is printmaking. Graphical drawings were created to showcase the concept of losing a pet and the emotion that comes with it. The artwork was displayed this way for the audience to see it as an album, flipping through memories that could provoke flashbacks of when times were different and to emphasize the idea of reminiscing. By displaying this piece, gaining a piece of understanding of pet loss or imagining how it would be like is the objective. People could relate to the prints due to the relationships they might have had with their pet which can evoke a reaction along with emotion.

About the Artist

As an artist, I explore identity -- how relationships, places, and experiences shape who we are. My work delves into memory, nostalgia, and childhood, often drawing inspiration from personal experiences. I tend to bring my ideas to life through digital illustrations and videos to create immersive experiences that invite viewers to reflect on their identity and connections. My goal is to create art that resonates with those who share similar experiences, and foster empathy and understanding in those who may not. 

Ultimately, I aim to capture the essence of sonder: the realization that every individual's unique experiences and perspectives make them distinct. I hope to inspire a deeper appreciation for the complexities and beauty of human identity by sharing my experiences and insights.