ARTWORK DETAILS

Tahlia Zorbas
Aftermath Sculpture
Sculptural Installation Stoneware, wire, plastic bottles, liquid

ARTIST STATEMENT

In May of 2022, Uvalde Texas experienced the second-worst school massacre to date. What could have been prevented by a statute, has fractured families, and sent a nation spiralling. ‘Aftermath’ explores the repercussions of violent traumas, and medical inequity, through the eyes of children who survived. Translucent amber pill bottles exemplify the costly medications and therapies, survivors require to numb their psychological suffering. These treatments are inherently intertwined with economic strain, due to overpriced American healthcare and a lack of Governmental support. How many more children, teachers and families will suffer from the results of these tragic and traumatic events?

ARTWORK PROCESS

The process began with my research into how I could reference medicine, and the psychological reverberations of trauma, in a contemporary context. I explored the work of Daniel Goldstein, who produces magnificent ethereal sculptures in response to HIV. His piece ‘Medicine man 2’ became my conceptual muse. To promote structural stability, I chose polyfoam over wire as my foundation. To provide context, bullets were handcrafted from clay, audio was produced, and labels were designed online. Viewers can interact with the installation through one of two tribute activities. This engagement seeks to provoke discussion, query, and emotion.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Tahlia Zorbas

When envisaging my work, I often look to current breaking news topics, or generalised 21st-century themes/issues to find inspiration. Having grown up privileged, in a first-world country, I feel obliged to speak up and give a voice to those who fall subject to medical, racial, socioeconomic, political, demographical, or employment inequity. I believe that I have the gift of speech for a reason, and art is my microphone. I combine my personal aesthetics and knowledge, to not only educate and entertain audiences but to fulfil my innate desire to serve others, advocate, solve problems and make real change, amidst a