Fernando Soares

Whether it be emotional trauma, an injury, the use of substances, or any number of memory disorders, memory is an extremely fragile space where most of our life resides. It’s believed that memories change slightly every time they’re recalled, like a long game of telephone, so what happens when these memories and experiences that shape who we are become faulty? People would prefer to avoid finding out for themselves, so they hold on to these memories tightly. Mementos and old photos are kept to have a physical reminder of these constantly changing memories. There is a point, however, when physical objects have their meanings dissolved by time.  

Using a mix of sculpture,  jewelry, and found objects, my thesis project is centered around the fragile and fleeting nature of childhood memories. The objects portrayed are all things that were important to me as a child and are the only things I still have vague memories of. Set within a child’s own bedroom, the piece is a snapshot of what I remember. These once treasured objects are now worn and distorted versions of what they used to be. This melting motif embodies my perception of the deterioration of my own childhood memories: these once beloved objects, representative of years of happiness and innocence, are disappearing into an indistinguishable puddle of nothing that I am powerless to stop.