Misapprehended - Fall 2023 - Visual Arts

Fall 2023 Visual Culture: REPRESENT!: Misapprehended
NARONG TINTAMUSIK
Underneath the Skin of My Mother’s Clothing 1, 2023
Acrylic, Collage, Laser Etching on 300 gsm Strathmore Paper, 18” x 24”
The “Underneath the Skin of My Mother’s Clothing” series captures the
essence of my mother’s traditional Thai attire. Rooted in Thai culture’s
animism belief, that all things hold spiritual essence, I explored whether
these textiles carried a kind of “life.” I started by photographing them and
using digital tools like Adobe Illustrator and a laser cutter to dissect the
clothing. This transformed the textiles, revealing new patterns and hidden
details. The resulting art often echoes cellular forms, symbolizing that even
everyday objects hold the wearer’s essence and history. This series blends
heritage and technology, honoring our past’s role in shaping today and
tomorrow. Through it, I invite viewers to reflect on the stories woven into
existence, connecting us to our roots.
My art resonates with the “Misapprehended” concept, depicting the gap
between first impressions and deeper intricacies. It reflects how people
perceive the world, often without fully grasping the unique experiences of
living and non-living entities. As my pieces merge heritage and technology,
they echo the theme of misunderstanding. They underline the contrast
between surface impressions and real truths. Ultimately, my art embodies
the show’s idea, offering a tangible glimpse into the complex nature of
communication, comprehension, and the potential for confusion.
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