Monologue is a 2021 video art piece that delves into the themes of the body, sexual assault, ineffable pain, and fear with its powerful visual impact and profound symbolism. In the work, a pink canvas is sliced open from behind by a sharp knife, creating a wound-like split through which black fingers slowly emerge, ultimately revealing a face that screams silently. This visual presentation not only conveys physical pain but also, through metaphor and symbolism, unveils deeper emotional and psychological trauma.
The contrast between the pink canvas and the sharp knife highlights the tension between the outward softness and inner trauma. The act of cutting, direct and brutal, exposes the violence of trauma, while the black fingers emerging from the slit symbolize hidden pain and unspoken repression. These elements collectively construct a sense of indescribable suffering, illustrating the profound impact of trauma on both the body and the psyche.
The silent scream in the piece strongly represents the inexpressible nature of pain. Although the image of the scream is visually present, its lack of sound makes it even more weighty, enhancing the viewer's deep understanding of unspoken anguish. It evokes a sense of oppression and helplessness, reflecting the predicament often faced by survivors of sexual assault: the inability to articulate their trauma and the silent fear and trembling that accompany it.
Monologue has been exhibited at the Vienna Art Week and the Fourth Chinese Women Artists' Video Art Exhibition in Mexico, providing it with an international art platform and sparking global discussions on these sensitive topics. These exhibitions not only transcended geographic boundaries but also allowed a wider audience to engage with and reflect on these crucial social issues.
Through its bold visual language and profound symbolism, Monologue challenges the viewer's understanding of physical pain and psychological trauma. It serves not only as an artistic expression of individual trauma but also as a critical commentary on the issue of sexual assault in society, compelling us to confront the often overlooked and hidden aspects of pain.
