Self : a visual representation of the psyche on the basis of jungian psychology through sculpture and layering

Abstract

There is more to a human being than what meets the eye. The image that one is aware of himself is only the tip of the iceberg; a larger part is embedded in the psyche and holds thoughts and experiences which might have been forgotten or repressed. This is the unconscious which is as important as the conscious part of the psyche and is especially active while sleeping and dreaming. This study combines interdisciplinary practices including sculpture, photography and film to create a visual experience that is based on Jung’s theory of the psyche. It aims to create a visual interpretation of the different levels that are present in one’s true self. An in-depth study of the different elements found in the psyche as portrayed by Jung was carried out, outlining their role and characteristics. Interviews were then effected on several artists about their work, asking questions such as how their work reflects their character to bring in personal traits to this research. A series of metal sculptures was produced, each representing a certain part of the psyche. These representations were based on both the theory and the analysis of the interviews. Each sculpture thus signifies a separate layer and only when seen collectively will they form the whole self which is a term coined by Jung for the psyche as a whole. This project outlines the importance of an audio-visual experience in communicating such an abstract theory that is based on a tangible entity. It describes the whole process from idea generation to the execution of the final exhibition with reference to several theorists and artists such as Mieke Bal, Chiharu Shiota and Andy Goldsworthy.