Tuesday 19th September, 7 – 9pm: Tia O’Donnell – ‘Two Shakes Of A Rabbits Tail’ Screening & Talk
‘Two Shakes Of A Rabbits Tail’ is a new moving image work by Tia O'Donnell which explores the theme of therapy through an animation of sculpture and childlike illustrations as a personal journey into the intersection of art, psychology, and self-expression. Tia’s unique approach, which combines physical clay sculptures with digital animation, allows her to convey profound messages about the duality of her experiences with mental health and the digital world.
The screening will be followed by a Q&A talk with the artist.
Tia’s use of both physical clay sculptures and digital animation highlights the contrast between the tangible, real-world struggles of mental health and the intangible, sometimes illusory nature of the online realm. This duality reflects her personal journey of navigating the divide between her physical and digital existence. Tia's choice to use physical and digital mediums suggests that creating art serves as a form of self-expression and healing for her. The tactile process of working with clay and the creative act of animating these sculptures offer a therapeutic release.
Tia's incorporation of childlike illustrations in her animations can be seen as a means of tapping into a more innocent and vulnerable part of herself. This style may evoke a sense of nostalgia or a return to a simpler, less complicated time, providing a contrast to the complexities of her mental health struggles in youth. In her work, Tia explores the idea that inanimate objects are not just lifeless entities but can carry profound emotional and psychological significance. This concept delves into the field of object relations, a psychological theory that suggests objects, both animate and inanimate, play a role in shaping an individual's psyche and relationships.
Tia's clay sculptures may symbolise her efforts to externalise and give form to her emotions. The act of shaping and manipulating physical objects can be a way to embody and make sense of one's inner world, providing a tangible representation of complex feelings. Her work invites viewers to contemplate the dualities and complexities of mental health in the digital age.
Tia's animations grapple with the idea of reality and perception. She is challenging the notion of authenticity in the online world, where individuals can present idealised versions of themselves while concealing their real-life struggles. In “Two Shakes Of A Rabbits Tail” Tia's discussion about how objects possess physical meaning or feeling goes beyond the mere representation of objects in her artwork. It delves into the deeper emotional and psychological connections people have with the physical world around them.
Overall, Tia O'Donnell's approach to animation, combining physical sculptures with digital art, allows her to explore the multifaceted nature of her experiences with mental health and the digital realm. Her work serves as a powerful means of self-expression, a platform for mental health awareness, and an exploration of the intricate relationship between the physical and digital worlds.
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