HEART OF STONE ( Motherhood: Beauty Within Sacrifice )

In a world of judgment and constant discrimination, my old traditional morals speak loudly in my consciousness; Never judge a book by its cover. It is those people who sacrifice the most who suffer the hardest externally; all of which was meant to protect the innocence and beauty around them. This Han-fu installation, made of stone, symbolizes the stone-like strength mothers possess to ensure they pass down an innocent, beautiful image of life to their children. Recorded throughout history, the decision to make this an apparel was due to the importance of my mom and her Chinese Taoist influence on me. As the array of color consumers grows within the sharp, uncomfortable blackness, this composition honors the beauty behind those that are overlooked. Motherhood was always labeled as a duty but never as an honorable sacrifice, where they sacrifice their own life and time to protect others they love. I see my mother’s calloused hands and dark circles under her eyes; those that prove to me the effort she dedicated to make sure I grow up safe and happy. Her actions symbolize the unwavering heroism of her heart even if she doesn’t show it externally. My mother's bodily sacrifice to nurture me has already taught me to appreciate the beauty of not only exterior, but interior as well. My own mother influenced me to cherish the underestimated; to honor those whose appearance juxtaposes with their internal beauty. In conclusion, through my appreciation of motherhood, I have learned that true strength comes from the beauty and kindness from within even under all societal impediments.