Cutting The Ties That Bind: Algea Disease
What if identity-related psychological trauma triggered an autoimmune rejection?
Coming out is a milestone in every LGBTQIA+ individual’s life. What happens after the revelation, though, can change one’s life trajectory and relationships forever. Throughout history, LGBTQIA+ individuals have endured being labeled as "sick". However, in this scenario, light is shed on the deep power imbalance, revealing that, in reality, it is society that inflicts the illness. Cutting the ties that bind: Algea Disease, is a speculative exploration of the profound impact that parental rejection has on LGBTQIA+ individuals. Inspired by existing scientific discoveries and the powerful symbolism of Schneider’s blood ties, I postulate a new disease to initiate a dialogue on an often overlooked topic which is inseparable from the LGBTQIA+ community.
The project is presented through a medical studio installation that proves a comprehensive showcase of the disease I conceptualized. From its peculiar scars, which with their own language can narrate people’s stories on their own skin, to the discovery of an “identity” organ, the scenario wants the audience to acknowledge this topic through the lenses of one of the most basic human fears: health.
Installation at London College of Communication Postgraduate Showcase in December 2023
The Disease and Its Scars
Collaborators:
Photographer: Stela Csizmazia @_morphiiine
3D Artist: Emilia Yara Huang @soy_emilia12