The term Catfish is becoming an ever-growing popular trend which entails someone who creates a false online profile using fake photographs and a supporting network, building a whole new identity and life background to lure someone into a relationship.

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As a wheelchair user, it feels as though that is the main label people place onto you. It tends to define a person. The aim is to detract away from that and be known for something positive, by using a talent or in this case creativity and exposing that there is more to you than a disability. Being creative allows the individual to express inner feelings through their artwork, providing a sense of relief. Therefore, one’s practice is important as it can be used to start a conversation on taboo topics which people are not made aware of. They tend to get swept under the carpet and the problem with that is, when that carpet is lifted these issues are still there. Serious topics such as Catfish need to be addressed and spoken about for society to open their eyes in order for positive changes to happen. This is possible with the power of Art, it can make a huge impact and difference of the well-being of today and future generations with its academic value that it holds. 

 

The intentions for this Final Major Project, is to create something powerful, allowing the pieces to speak for themselves. Educating and making viewers aware of this dark, twisted online identity fraud known as Catfishing. The aim is to start conversations and to get people to process what they have seen, taking in the devastating consequences and reality of this form of deception. The internet is dangerous, it can negatively impact lives physically and mentally.  This may make social media users think twice before sharing personal and intimate pieces of information to strangers on platforms which in turn will save lives. If evidential images of this online scam happening to someone else is directly in front of them, this may produce feelings of comfort and support as they are not suffering on their own. One may feel isolated, lonely and uncertain, therefore the artwork displayed is an effective way of providing support. If you face and confront your fears, then consequently the fears will no longer confront you. By facing them, the things which one fears most will fade away simply by coming to terms with what has happened in order for them to be resolved. 

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Here is a video created for the Catfish Exhibition.