An overactive amygdala from PTSD can cause sufferers to cry uncontrollably from many different stimuli and reminders of past trauma. This work is supposed to drive empathy for those who suffer from this condition, forcing the audience to cry along with the sufferer. You can walk up and poke this eye, perpetuating a cycle of pain. Pain and trauma is something that is passed back and forth. We hurt people, and people can hurt us.

An excerpt from my notes on experiencing trauma

“I was constantly on high alert, wishing I could turn my brain off. Seeing things speaking to me that weren’t actually there. Every breath I took was short and sharp. I felt like I was screaming from the inside out. I felt terrified I would be like this forever. Thinking I was dying, to feel like this and not be dying didn’t make sense. What I hadn’t realized is that my entire identity was becoming fractured. Everything I had known to be true was crumbling in front of me.”

Foam board, Joint compound, glue, acrylic paint, masking tape, upholstery needles, dog speaking button, miniature lights, resin, wood, spray foam

8ft x 3 ft