The “Sensors” series is a part of my autobiographical project which explores the human experience through our physical senses, our relationship with ourselves, loved ones and the world.
During my work on the series, I focused on each sensory organ and observed it throughout the week, monitoring my states within each one. Initially, this was my personal research project to help me reconnect with and start feeling more like myself again. With the help of photography, I aimed to regain my lost sense of self in the midst of motherhood, work, and a constantly changing world.
Contemporary living conditions have the potential to make us feel like robots. It’s difficult to pause amidst our daily routines and really consider what we’re feeling and why. This understanding usually requires many years of therapy. However, art can reveal things in a unique way. Through this series, I explored the vulnerability felt when we turn off our senses and focus on one object. This experience would leave us feeling incomplete, empty, and helpless.
The series features several key symbols, such as bandages that serve as both a reminder of “inferiority” and illness, visual effects which depict the dynamics, desires, and challenges of controlling one’s emotions, and color that symbolizes detachment from reality. I incorporated my personal reflections and diary notes into this approach.
“Sense of Smell”
My sense of smell is something that I find fascinating. I used to enjoy a variety of scents, including perfumes. I had different sets of perfumes for various occasions, time of day, and weather. However, during my pregnancy, I developed a low tolerance for strong smells, such as meat and perfumes. When I had a disagreement with my husband, I found myself unable to tolerate his smell as well. A man on the bus with a medicine-like odor reminded me of my grandfather who had a heart condition. Our sense of smell is a way to connect to the past and create new associations for future recollection.
“Sense of Touch”
Our skin is the most common organ involved in sensing touch. It has various receptors, each responsive to a specific stimulus.The sense of touch lets us perceive and connect with the physical world, and it is crucial for our emotional and social interactions.Touch can generate various emotional responses, ranging from comfort and soothing to pain and discomfort. Touch is the primary means by which people make physical contact, enhancing feelings of intimacy and connection. The body recalls everything it has experienced.
“Sense of Hearing”
When we were young, we used to go to the club. The loud noise afterwards caused a jolt in the nervous system and a strong buzzing in the ears. I enjoy listening to music a lot. A new cassette or a player was the most desirable gift for me. To focus better, I play music and fully engage in the task at hand. Music surrounds you. It evokes emotions. If I listen to my favorite song in my headphones, even the way I walk changes. Music can be an anchor; you listen to a song and it brings back memories, moments, and feelings…
“Sense of Sight”
Eyes indicate important information. The brain prefers contrast, bright images, repetitive patterns, and symmetry. It reduces stress levels and creates calm. Observing another person’s eyes indicates absence of danger. Observing an unusual subject releases dopamine. Otherwise, the brain has to work harder to focus on important information.
“Sense of Tasting”
When we visit a new country or area, we often want to taste the local food. It feels like we’re not just trying the food, but also learning about the culture of the region. When you try something new, take your time, savor the taste, and explore the flavors. If a dish is familiar, you tend to eat it quickly and without chewing. Food can have an impact on positive or negative emotions. We desire varied things based on our moods, emotions, and conditions. We make up for our inner needs by sacrificing external ones.
“Sense of Balans”
Balance had not been introduced before as a distinct type of sensor. Thus, it was captivating to observe it. The initial observation was that my son was going through puberty. He has always been extremely active and has exquisite control over his body. I’ve always respected his skill. And then came a time of change. He’s grown up and he’s clumsy. Everything drops and falls. It’s like he’s learning to control his body again. Similar to Alice in Wonderland’s experience after consuming a mushroom and fluctuating in size.Whenever unexpected occurrences take place in our lives, we lose our sense of balance. As we say, the ground beneath our feet disappears. To regain stability, we strive to reclaim our original sense of self.
