I’ve always believed that art is one of the most powerful tools for delivering a message. In this project, I’ve created three digital paintings to convey a message, intending to prompt the audience to reflect on themselves. I’ve chosen to name my project “Uncomfortable” because its purpose is to evoke discomfort.
In today’s educational landscape, many schools attempt to showcase diversity by displaying ethnic ratios. While this might be considered progress compared to historical school segregation, it doesn’t necessarily equate to true educational inclusion. Students of different backgrounds may not receive the same quality of education or opportunities, even within the same classroom. Merely presenting ethnic ratios on a school homepage doesn’t address these complex issues. While my project may not encompass all the challenges we face, I strive to lay the foundation for the audience to take their first step: recognition.
I believe that potential and unconscious biases significantly impact students. As an educator, the continuous reflection on one’s potential biases is a lifelong process. My hope is that the project I’ve created supports my audience in contemplating the biases that might exist, often lingering beneath the surface.
Addressing this topic is uncomfortable, and that’s precisely why I named my project “Uncomfortable.” It’s designed to make every audience member feel uneasy, encouraging deep thinking and self-reflection. I understand that no educator wishes to be labeled as racist or biased, but denying these possibilities only perpetuates the issue. It’s time to stop the denial and step out of your comfort zone.
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