Metamorphosis aims to visually represent the emotions of struggle, nostalgia, and acceptance associated with personal growth. The artist wears a handmade gown inspired by caterpillar cocoons with paper cast hands clutching to the long skirt. Throughout the duration of the piece the artist slowly peels off layers of “skin” from their arms, face, chest, back, and legs. The flakes are pinned inside a frame in the shape of a winged insect. The act of peeling off layers of “skin” references shedding and represents discarding decaying aspects of oneself, personality traits, relationships, anxieties, or other obsolete attributes. Carefully pinning the skin into a new shape signifies self-reflection, acceptance of the past, and a reverence for nostalgia. The performance concludes once has removed as much “skin” as possible.

Photography Credits: Sophie Dituri Photography & Paul O'Russa Photography