by Sidney Hale
Size: 15 x 15 x 3 inches
Edition Size: 1
Materials: Turmeric ink, Red cabbage ink, fabric, beads, adhesive gems on canvas
- 12oz Heavy Canvas
- Bottom Gusset
- Reinforced at stress points
- 21 inch Web Handles
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About the Tote Bag:
This bag represents the emotional baggage that I carry due to dermatillomania, or excoriation disorder. This disorder runs in my family, and is characterized by causing those who have it to compulsively pick at or damage their skin. I carry this with me every day, as increased stress can result in a flare up. Although I can reduce the visible damage done to my face with makeup, I still feel a sense of shame in how I look because of it. I wanted to create this bag as a means of dispelling the stigma surrounding atypical skin, as I also have family members with conditions like eczema and rosacea. Just as I carry the baggage of dermatillomania, with its effects evident on my face, the user of this bag will carry it as well, with uneven coloration and texture covering the outside of the tote. The subject of my disorder is very personal to me, and the creation of this piece will be my first time speaking publicly about it. I hope this piece can offer solace to those who are affected by disorders like dermatillomania, and communicate to others that while beauty is skin-deep, it can deeply affect our emotions and sense of self worth.
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