Entered Information
Student Name: Carisma D
Grade: 11
Title: Stigma
Description: Stigma is a stoneware sculpture of a humanoid figure resting on an open paper journal that expresses the stigma faced when dealing with depression. The figure is sitting on their hands and knees while it gives the appearance of melting. There are multiple wooden sticks stabbing through the back and chest with different words written on each one. The journal has an entry with more text emphasized on it. It has a black stain surface treatment. The figure was shaped leaning over to show how gravity pulls it to a natural position. I sculpted the arms and legs using realistic proportions and body positions to express the feeling of defeat. The melting was achieved by using slip and dripping it over the figure to show weight and create movement. The black stain used accentuates the drips and emphasizes the texture. Bold words on the wooden sticks and journal create a dark and unsettling mood for the viewer and help express the purpose that makes people rethink how they view mental health. Stigma was created as a representation of mental health and shows a side from someone who is dealing with the effects of the mental health stigmatism. Society can portray people who have mental health issues like depression and anxiety to be dangerous or useless. People with mental health can be seen as weak and they have to struggle with society's pressure on top of their existing problems. The figure is melting under the pressure of other peoples’ unfounded opinions because of their illness. The wooden sticks express how the pain of cruel words affects them. The journal shows an in-depth look into how the figure feels and what influence the stigma has on them creating an emotional connection to the viewer and makes them feel sympathy. Stigma is intended to make people understand how society has placed mental health people to be unfair, and help them end their assumptions towards people before they know them.
Dimensions: (L)9 x (W)8 x (H)8 (Inches)
Weight: 4 Lbs.
School: Greencastle Senior High School - Greencastle, IN
Teacher: Alex Miller
Exhibition: The 23rd Annual National K-12 Ceramic Exhibition


Recognition
Additional Work Info
Clay Vendor: Other, Highwater redstone
Wheel Vendor: Other
Tool Vendor: Bailey Ceramic Supply
Glaze Vendor: Other, Our own recipe black stain
Kiln Vendor: Bailey
Firing Temp: High Temp
Atmosphere: Oxidation
Cone Number:
Entry Photos