Name
Grace Zhang

Age Group (If you are a caregiver/family member please check Caregiver/Family Member)
Adult: 21 and over

Artist Statement (include type of art, techniques & materials used, what it means to you)
“Bittersweet” was created using glazed ceramic, paper mache, cotton swabs, and twine. This piece measures 7” x 4” x 6”. I used the pomegranate as a metaphor for my life during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the outside of a pomegranate is smooth, mirroring that individuals have been attempting to normalize life amidst COVID-19, the inside of the pomegranate contains COVID-19 particles, representing what I have experienced during this pandemic. By using cut-up surgical masks, cut-up Clorox labels, and news articles about cleanliness, long COVID, anti-Asian hate, and other articles to create paper mache “caps” to cover the COVID-19 particles on the pomegranate, this demonstrates some of the issues that have manifested due to COVID-19. Individuals are all, to a certain degree, experiencing difficulty because of COVID-19, which is exemplified by interior of the pomegranate, since the inside of pomegranates can be bitter because of the white pith and sour from the seeds. Since these paper mache coverings connect to the white pith, this demonstrates that these issues contribute to the “bitterness” we feel. Eventually, if we allow the issues that have manifested due to COVID overwhelm us, we can burst, just as the seeds of pomegranates do if excessive pressure is placed upon them. Overall, COVID-19 has altered the trajectories of our futures forever, impacting the “seeds” of the future, just as the COVID-19 particles affect the seeds inside the pomegranate.

However, I recognize that good can manifest from such adversity. Especially since they are attached to the structure using grey epoxy, which mimics the COVID-19 particles, the hearts allude to the idea that although COVID-19 has caused greater inequality, medical challenges, violence, and mental health issues, it has also led to positive outcomes as well. Through this pandemic, I was able to nurture my passions for art, baking, and cooking, spend more time with family and friends, and grow closer to those whom I love. The care and support from my loved ones, which are also represented by the hearts among the pomegranate seeds, has helped me persevere through this pandemic. Hence, while it also connotes the flavor of pomegranates, I’ve decided to title my piece “Bittersweet” in recognition of both the good and the bad that has manifested from COVID-19.

Bio (include your age, tumor type and date of diagnosis)
My name is Grace Zhang. I am currently 21 years old, a junior at Scripps College majoring in biology and double minoring in art and Asian American studies, on the pre-medical or pre-physician’s assistant track. I am a survivor of craniopharyngioma.