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Art + Design: Integrated Studio Arts
½ûÂþÌìÌà Kyla Williams
Kyla is a multimedia artist from Plainville, Massachusetts. Studied at Bristol Community College, obtaining their associate in Fine Art, MECA, and now resides at ½ûÂþÌìÌÃ, graduating in Integrated Studio Art, with a focus in painting and illustration. Their work explores self-identity, nostalgia, and escapism through abstract self-portraits and surreal interiors. By using different mediums, the artist hopes to expand their work from a 2D space to creating interactive spaces with sculptures.
Statement
My work opens a window into another world, as if you could find yourself walking into this new space in a daydream. An abstracted self-portrait called “Dreamer” was the first of this series. Initially, I found it strange and a little self-deprecating, but it drew my inspiration. When creating the background for this figure, I didn't leave much room to develop the space. Instead, I distorted the perspective to match the strange energy of the figure. I started identifying more with these little caricatures of myself than the person I see in the reflection of a mirror.
I began studying perspective and interior design to elevate the expression of the spaces I invent. I've experimented with translating these designs digitally and traditionally, through paintings, illustrations, as well as sculptures. My work has mainly been about escapism and self-reflection. The home is a very integral part of my world, one could say a basic need for any person. Because of one reason or another, I never had a healthy or safe place to live. As a result, this work is about healing and creating spaces where one can find peace.