The Vanitas is a memento mori and draws attention to impermanence. I really like to using symbols in my works and hiding them inside. In fact, nothing comes into the picture by accident; each of them has something deep to say.
This picture is a portrait of my grandmother. This work was part of a self-discovery process for me. Everyone carries transgenerational heritage and our ancestors play a decisive role. It is very important to recognize our transgenerational heritage and learn about the stories of our ancestors, which help us understand our reactions and decisions. The history of our grandparents is also important.
This picture shows symbols related to femininity, which can also be linked to menstruation. Pomegranate is a very old feminine symbol that are also connected with menstruation. In addition to the pomegranate, a menstrual cup is also hidden in the picture; it is delicately incorporated, which is hardly noticeable. Menstruation symbolizes the cycle of death. In the female cycle, life is symbolized by ovulation. Death, on the other hand, is a very important stage because without letting go there will be no rebirth and no new cycle will begin.
For in and out, above, about, below,
'Tis nothing but a Magic Shadow-show,
Play'd in a Box whose Candle is the Sun,
Round which we Phantom Figures come and go.
***
OMAR KHAYYAM – TAMAM SHUD
Vanitas
2020