Lena Guberman’s latest series of ceramic sculptures, “INS_IDE_OUT”, delves into the complexities of childhood social anxiety. The works feature a recurring young girl’s face, evoking a sense of melancholy. Each mask is intricately designed with symbolic elements like spikes, arrows, and even dead birds, visually representing the emotional chaos of anxiety. Guberman’s art reflects the contrast between the polished exterior we present to the world and the internal turmoil that often bursts through, highlighting the struggle for personal expression in the face of fear.
The sculptures embody more than just anxiety — they also convey the heavy burden of trying to conform. With the delicate yet striking facial features of her subject, Guberman expresses the tension between vulnerability and the defense mechanisms we adopt. The spiked, unsettling additions to the girl’s face reinforce the idea that the persona we present is often a mask, meant to shield from the harshness of social interaction and the weight of expectation. These pieces invite reflection on how childhood anxieties can shape our adult lives.
Guberman is expanding on her ceramic practice, integrating other materials into her upcoming projects, suggesting a growing depth to her exploration of emotional complexity. The work serves as both a personal reflection and a universal commentary on the ways anxiety manifests, offering a space for contemplation and connection.
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