Carmin Kilpatrick
That Thing You Do
Art began as a means of self-expression, but over time, it has transformed into a vehicle for impact and change. Through my work, I aim to provoke thought, spark dialogue, and illuminate important personal and social issues.
This painting explores the theme of fragmented identity and emotion. The realistic faces contrast with the abstract bodies, symbolizing the tension between self-perception and external forces that shape identity. The varied color treatments represent shifting emotional states since identity is never fixed but constantly evolving. The piece reflects the complexity of human experience, where multiple selves coexist, collide, and redefine each other over time.
My art delves into the intertwined concepts of truth, judgment, and change, exploring how they shape identity in a rapidly evolving world. As people grapple with the meaning of "truth" in a society where it often feels relative, my work challenges viewers to consider the narratives that shape both internal and external perceptions—how biases and societal influences affect what we accept as reality. I also investigate the concept of metamorphosis, revealing how transformation—whether physical, mental, or emotional—is a universal experience. My pieces highlight the forces that drive change and illustrate how people adapt and redefine themselves in response to judgment. I hope that my work invites reflection, showing how some of the most profound transformations emerge from even the darkest beginnings, and encourages viewers to examine their own personal truths.
I typically approach art-making with an open, experimental spirit. Rather than narrowing my focus to a single medium, I embrace a diverse range, including oil paint, acrylic paint, ink, digital tools, and collage. And this variety enables me to tailor each piece’s materials to its intended message and emotion. While my work may initially seem disparate, a deeper look reveals an underlying unity, embodying the idea that human truths resonate across different experiences. Through this multi-medium approach, I seek to challenge myself and engage viewers in a meaningful exploration of identity and transformation.