Thesis Project #8: Hail

In our collaboration, we examined the question: In which situations do we self-actualize unsolicited support? To look into this topic, we took inspiration from natural objects, specifically rocks - those that survive by themselves, without man-made modifications. Dragged down by their own weight, the rocks lie onto fragile knitted nets that contrast their rawness and rigidity. Sometimes, when faced with insecurities, expectations, and social pressure, we keep to ourselves. We contain our problems, and hope that they disappear over time. Other times, we let our barriers down, sharing our concerns with others. In a sense, rocks resemble those problems. Some, held up by nets, levitate above our heads. Some, on the ground, lie still and exposed. To contain our issues is to face them with ignorance, and to unravel them - to show our imperfections - is to face them with bravery.

Our process began with a search for rocks - ranging from minute pebbles to large stones - throughout the nooks and crannies of Peddie's campus. Afterwards, we undertook a cleaning procedure of each rock in order to eliminate any unnecessary moss or bugs. As they dried, we began diligently crafting knitting fabrics from Erika's remnant yarn. Despite the warm weather, we spent our free time inside Swig as Erika taught me how to knit. I encountered initial difficulty, often succumbing to fits of exasperation, and restarted my work numerous times. However, I eventually produced a fabric that we were able to use to suspend one of the rocks. After knitting fifteen fabrics, we hung each of them in the gallery using clothesline with the help of Mrs. Watkins. Finally, we placed a few rocks on the floor of the gallery in order to complement and complete the piece.

In Vietnamese, “rock” and “ice” are both called “đá”, hence, hail can also mean “raining rocks”. Inspired by the use of natural elements, I portray the rocky, crumbling emotional barrier I set for myself. Held back by fragile yarns, the rocks try to escape, their weight putting a toll on the handmade yarn nets holding them in.

Process pictures: