The background and figure in this painting were created using charcoal, while the branch and root textures extending from the neck are rendered in acrylic. The deep red, branch-like pattern across the chest symbolizes a surge of new life, vitality, and energy, representing the my rebirth. The water immersion alludes to Christian baptism, a ritual that signifies spiritual rebirth and purification. This work expresses my longing and determination to study abroad. Although I feel some apprehension, I firmly believe that I will ultimately overcome any challenges that lie ahead.

In this artwork, I used charcoal to create three self-portraits. From right to left, I extended three cubes from the mouth, ear, and nose using one-point perspective. This piece represents my journey of self-growth, with the cubes evolving from a state of enclosure to openness.

The lower section depicts a transition from an orderly space to a fragmented one, highlighting my realization that adhering too strictly to rules can make life dull. Thus, it can be both acceptable and necessary to break certain rules.

This piece features a cold-toned, watercolor wall covered in numberless exam papers, evoking a sense of oppression. A student lies on the floor, shriveled up and hairless, gazes up with hollow eyes at the two nearly perfect test scores, highlighting his numbness under academic pressure.

The inspiration stems from observing friends in public school, who viewed their mental and physical exhaustion as normal. My contrasting experiences with different educational environments helped me recognize this issue.

The theme of hands and ribbons illustrates the tension between control and freedom. I used colored pencils to depict the delicate texture of two hands. One hand reaches out to grasp the Resplendent Quetzal, while the other offers it a place to rest. This imagery symbolizes the distinct roles of my parents: my mother guides me and helps me find my way when I stray, while my father provides a haven where I can always find comfort. The bird flaps its wings, its beady eyes looking into the distance, where my destination lies.

This piece was created using watercolor to depict two ears and the texture of water, with colored pencils enhancing the hue of the upper-left ear. I chose to submerge one ear in the water to symbolize how, during each dive, one can only hear their own breathing—as if the world has faded away, leaving just oneself behind. In this state, I can temporarily set aside all my worries. This approach also serves as a metaphor for how I often cope with negative emotions: by forgetting or selectively tuning them out in order to seek inner release.

The painting features multiple distorted and overlapping faces and lines. These abstract representations of human features explore the complexities of identity, perception, and emotion. I created this piece after I had become familiar with high school life. Unlike the innocence of elementary school, social interactions in high school proved to be quite challenging for me, as it seemed that everyone had formed their own small cliques. In an attempt to fit in, I tried to join one of these groups, but their conversations always left me feeling uncomfortable. Eventually, I came to understand that some social circles aren't meant to be forced.

This artwork, created with acrylics, features two white hands depicted with intentional negative space. They symbolize the safety net I have always had throughout my growth. My family and friends have been my constant companions and guides, much like a pair of luminous hands that both lead and protect me. This piece conveys the strength we draw from those who support us during our most vulnerable moments. It serves as a significant reflection on the importance of love and support in our personal lives.

I used watercolor for the bleary, distorted background and acrylic marker for the shouting mouths in various shades of red. This contrast makes the latter’s color pop. Inspired by a tunnel collapse accident and the works of Japanese horror manga artists, I enlivened the canvas with an expression that is as violent and rude as the overwhelming invasion of self-critical thoughts in my life.

This work features a mirrored and inverted replication of the same eye to explore the conflict between fantasy and reality. Using charcoal and colored pencils, I created a contrast between the idealized world, represented by a colored iris and monochrome skin. A black and white iris and colored skin conversely represent that I’m in the actual world.

The inspiration for this piece stems from my recurring thought: “if only…” The painting is a candid confrontation with my inner contradictions, on how we seek solace in fantasy while learning to dwell within the truth of our existence.