Hailey Shen

Left unspoken, emotions press inward until the mind fractures. This charcoal self-portrait underscores the importance of vulnerability and allowing others to see the cracks before everything shatters. With a white pastel pencil, I emphasized the highlights and shine of broken glass shards. The cracks along the face reflect how, over time, the inability to express oneself can slowly build pressure. I contrasted my portrait’s stoic expression with the chaotic exterior to portray that silence: that when we avoid expressing what we truly think and feel, it can not only harm us internally but also leak outward, building resentment and hurting others with misdirected emotions and regretful words.

24” x 18”
Charcoal and white pastel pencil on paper