Casey Hamell
Thesis (pdf)
Abstract
My thesis examines identity and voice through an exploration of self and community. There are two main components, the presentation itself, and the visual work, which is a short film. I reflect on my past as it informs my present, and occupy an inbetween type of space. The film can be viewed on its own, or with the talk I gave. They are both different experiences. When viewed after the talk, there is a small journey that the audience takes with me before the viewing where I tell parts of my story as the happenings of my life greatly influence my creative process, and inform my voice.
Artist Statement
I am a queer creator. I use this word to summarize all the other words that I use to describe my identity. I make animation, illustration, and often use a mix of digital tools to bring a project together. I also like to use pens, pencils, and paper to make sketches; this allows my ideas to have a form I get to touch directly.
My work functions as a way for me to connect to the world and create connections between others and myself. In my animated documentary, I use myself as the subject, giving voice to my experiences and feelings in order to let other people connect to me. I know that though I often feel alone in my struggles and even sometimes in my victories, that I do not have to experience life, no matter what is happening at the moment, separated from myself and others. However, that is a hard outlook to keep. I create to explore the parts of life that have caused me deep sadness and pain, but also to dive into the absolute joy that can come from being alive. When I use sound, I keep it quiet because there are not enough quiet places in this world for people to just be and reflect on what is around them.
