A Visual Study of Culture Shock: from the Perspective of an American Student Abroad in Spain
Extensive travel in a foreign country can lead one to question and analyze the basic truths that he/ she has always accepted. Cultural and linguistic submersion places many demands on an individual and often leads to confusion, misinterpretation, doubts and insecurities. The manifestation of culture shock, one's confusion of his/ her surroundings, may affect individuals differently, although it often leads to a period of personal introspection and character growth. As a student abroad in Spain, I encountered many feelings of confusion, of being overwhelmed, of inadequacy to communicate, and of uncertainty of my personal beliefs.
My works focus on my observations and experiences with communication, discrimination, oposing political viewpoints, and conflict in the media. I have taken a collage-like approach, mixing images and sometimes mediums to create a new reality. It is my hope, that through studying this series, one will be able to gain a little insight into cultural views and the struggles of being a foreigner. In today's times, knowing about other cultures, and their perspective, can be very important. With a better understanding of cultural practices, I believe that people can also see that perspectives from one culture to the next are important. Cultural understanding and acceptance are quintessential in confronting stereotypes and wrong ideas, and in defusing unecessary conflict between nations.
