Elude
Joel Parkinson
student
‘My self-portrait depicts me in a state of fear and isolation. A book shields me from the rain, a metaphor for the hostility of society’s expectations. Many succumb to the fear of being judged or showing weakness. Recently, I’ve heard a lot of people apologize for showing emotion and had an epiphany. Why do we feel obliged to apologize simply for being open? For me, the idea of facing uncertainties, exposure, and emotional risks is terrifying. When we’re at our most vulnerable, we’re afraid people will reject us.