Ceramic piece by Roger Hollingshead, framed in Wood and plaster frame made in 1867 in London.
This piece is a portrayal of the turmoil that was the first 23 years of the artist’s life. Growing up in one of the most restrictive cults in America with no access to common things like technology, internet, or non-cult books, he needed a reprieve and that often came in the form of art. Painting, sewing, gardening and drawing were forms available to him then. From narrowly escaping conversion therapy to planning a getaway from the cult that took 4 years, moving 15 hours across the country, and creating a new life, the road was rough and full of turmoil.
The chaos of the cult was always hidden under the guise of being a “peaceful & god fearing people” hence the gilded gold frame encompassing the turmoil and showing the world an image that isn’t the true reality. As you look at the piece, you can catch distorted glimpses of yourself, reminding you that your dreams and aspirations are not your own when you are inside the walls of a cult. You are a prisoner.