I noticed a thread of three in the various kinds of states of self which has intrigued a new body of work. I have always been curious about the psychological connection in art making, interpretation and appreciation.
In this writing, we delve into an overview of those voices in our heads... for artists, they are perhaps stronger than what others may experience, who knows. We currently reside in the Karoo in South Africa - there is a quiet I've experienced in this landscape which has enabled research into these psychological frameworks. The latest body of work which is currently being developed investigates the states of self, commenting on subtle observations and
The states of self in adult child and parent refer to different psychological roles and perspectives that individuals may adopt within the family dynamic. Understanding these states can help us explore how they influence artwork creation and viewing. In exploring the common threads, here, we will discuss the PAC model.
There are various ways to conceptualize and categorize the different states of self.
The common perspectives:
Parent, Adult, Child (PAC Model): This model, developed by Eric Berne in transactional analysis, describes three ego states: the Parent state (nurturing, controlling, or critical), the Adult state (rational, objective, and problem-solving), and the Child state (adaptive, emotional, and spontaneous).
For comparison, the following models will be discussed in future writings.
Freudian Model
Sigmund Freud's psychoanalytic theory proposes three primary structures of the mind: the Id (primitive and instinctual desires), the Ego (mediator between the Id and Superego), and the Superego (internalized moral and societal values). These structures influence an individual's behaviors, thoughts, and emotions.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) Model
Developed by Richard Schwartz, IFS identifies multiple internal "parts" or subpersonalities within an individual. Some of the common parts include Exiles (carrying unhealed emotional wounds), Managers (maintaining control and avoiding vulnerability), and Firefighters (addressing immediate crises or overwhelming emotions).
Jungian Model
Carl Jung proposed that the self is composed of a multiplicity of archetypal energies or psychological complexes. These include the Persona (social mask), Animus (masculine aspects in females), Anima (feminine aspects in males), Shadow (repressed or unconscious aspects), and Self (unifying and transcendent center).
Humanistic Model
In humanistic psychology, the self is seen as a complex entity striving for self-actualization and personal growth. The states of self in this model comprise aspects of self-concept, self-esteem, and self-identity, emphasizing individual experience, self-awareness, and personal values.
The categorization of different states of self may vary depending on the psychological perspective being considered. These models provide frameworks for understanding the multifaceted nature of the self and its various facets, allowing for nuanced exploration of human behavior, creativity, and personal development. I was intrigued by the idea of how the states of self influence the theoretical framework, creative process and analytical crit in developing bodies of work.
Adult
The adult state represents a balanced and rational aspect of the self. In this state, individuals engage in mature decision-making and take responsibility for their actions. When creating artwork, the adult state may manifest in the artist's ability to plan, execute, and reflect upon their process critically. In viewing artwork, this state may allow the viewer to analyze and interpret the piece objectively, considering artistic principles and cultural contexts.
Child
The child state reflects the playful, imaginative, and emotional aspects of the self. In this state, individuals may feel more spontaneous, curious, and open to experiencing joy or vulnerability. Art creation from the child state could encompass free expression, experimentation, and embracing the joy of creating without constraints. When viewing artwork, the child state may enable a sense of wonderment, emotional connection, and exploration of one's inner world.
Parent
The parent state embodies the nurturing, protective, and guiding aspect of the self. It involves providing support, structure, and setting boundaries. When generating artwork, the parent state could manifest as self-critique, adherence to techniques or rules, and a focus on craftsmanship. When viewing artwork, the parent state might lead to a more analytical and evaluative approach, seeking to understand the artist's intent, message, and technical execution.
The impact of these states on artwork creation and viewing can vary for each individual. Some artists predominantly channel their child state, embracing creativity without judgment, while others may engage in a more structured and adult-oriented approach. Similarly, viewers might connect with artwork from their child state, embracing emotions and personal interpretations, or analyze it through a more adult or parent viewpoint to understand the artist's technique and message.
It is important to note that individuals can shift between these states depending on various factors, such as their mood, mindset, or the specific artwork in question. The interplay of these states adds depth and complexity to the creation and interpretation of artwork, allowing for diverse perspectives and experiences.
The connection to my art practice
Concept has always dictated media in my work, and, the messaging in my practice is the main driving factor for the reason why I create. Applying rich buttery textures of good quality paint, mixing a colour match spot on, developing new textures in layers, the rawness of sculpting with clay and the direct hand to brain connection are but of course - the cherry on the cake that makes this little artist's heart skip a beat.
Why go down the rabbit hole?
Theoretical framework and the research behind my inspiration that drives my work - this factor is a great part of my creative process. Art is linked to all, and, what peaks my interest in saying what I do through my work has to be understood in full in order to best express myself in sharing my two cents worth with the world.
"and in the end, it is all connected. We are here to learn just how to connect those dots." JMLR
The Series continues
The body of work is being developed in mixed media landscapes with wording that instilled mindfulness for me. An ongoing series of sculptures is being created. As mentioned, writings to follow will delve into the rest of the most common models in the states of self series.
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