ANXIOUS BODIES

Author

Miranda Chapman

Date of Award

2020

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelors

Department

Humanities

First Advisor

Anderson, Kim

Area of Concentration

Art

Abstract

Combatting the malignant theory of separation of body and mind proposed by René Descartes in 1641, Anxious Bodies details the suffering associated with anxiety disorders. Eleven highly realistic mixed-media paintings featuring embroidery transform anxiety from something invisible to something obvious and alarming, inviting the viewer into the world of mental illness. The horrific subject matter of the works, depicting parasites, dermatological conditions, mutations, etc. corrupting various parts of the human body call to the viewer while also disturbing them. Contrasting my work with more oppressive paintings of mental illness done in the 19th century and comparing my work to the more progressive painters of today, I contextualize my paintings. My work proves that mental illness is not isolated to the abstract concept of the mind, but lives in our entire existence, our skin, our organs, our bones, our blood, permeating our entire being.

Recommended Citation

Chapman, Miranda, "ANXIOUS BODIES" (2020). Theses & ETDs. 5955.
https://digitalcommons.ncf.edu/theses_etds/5955