Shae Khreish, Performing Me (PEOPLE 2024)

This work is a deeply personal exploration of identity, change, and the passage of time, revealing the contrast between outward appearance and inner reality. The clown, with its juxtaposition of joy and sadness, serves as a powerful metaphor for the complexity of human emotions and the masks we wear to navigate the world. Through this piece, I aim to contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the nature of selfhood in a society that often demands conformity. By portraying myself as a clown, I reflect on how I frequently feel compelled to act in ways that align with others' expectations rather than my true self. The inclusion of my favorite childhood toy symbolises a longing for a time when I felt free to be myself, unburdened by societal pressures.

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