Mary Chen

Headshot of Mary Chen

Sorry....

Thesis Statement

As an illustrator, I explore a range of concepts through a narrative perspective. I delve into narrative themes using storytelling techniques, emphasizing the use of color, composition, and perspective manipulation. Within this narrative, we accompany a character with mental illness throughout her day. From sunrise to dusk, mirroring the day's progression, her story reaches its conclusion as night falls. With the works having an overall blue tint, it gives a sense of coolness and literal blues.

Everyone lives an eventful life. Good or bad. It’s not every day that you get to hear someone’s life story. And I am here to share mine through art. My thesis is very much a reflection of myself through those times. Flat emotions? Losing the sense of smell? Fainting during showers? Not wanting to look at yourself through the mirror? Coldness that hits deep to the bones? Or trying out new things that MIGHT interest you for you to give up on it a few days later? It is an everyday thing. But I looked “normal” on the outside, whatever that meant. It’s not until the world is seen through our eyes that others understand what “normal” means for us.

Panels about a nightmare where the girl is getting stabbed by mysterious figure.

Oneiric Torment, Digital Print, 27" x 20", 2024

Panels of the girl waking up from the nightmare and calming down while washing.

Cognizant Awaken, Digital Print, 27" x 20", 2024

Panels of the girl walking back to her room after washing and cleaning her room and looking at her photo album.

Tranquilize Mien, Digital Print, 26" x 20", 2024

Panels of the girl getting ready to go out and goes to a florist to purchase a bouquet of flowers.

Odyssey Begins, Digital Print, 27" x 20", 2024

Panels of the girl with the bouquet of flowers going into a cafe and ordering the newest menu option. While she enjoys her dessert, she finds an aquarium ticket in her book and decides to go.