The artistic research project The Face Between Us shines a light on our assumptions towards normalcy and otherness by focusing on the face - a symbol of identity, a portal for communication, and an arena for self-representation. We all have a face; this unites us. The face, however, acts as a canvas for our true inner self and as a mask - protecting our emotions from others. The face unites, divides, reveals, and deceives. 

The work features a combination of tactile, time-demanding crafts such as textiles and ceramics with intangible time-based animated images and sound. Through these various mediums, I am investigating if extended and multi-sensorial use of illustration can expand the experience between imaginary storytelling and sensorial physicality within the field of illustration, especially at a time when image generators such as AI can produce illustrations on demand. 

The project uses discursive design as a theoretical framework. The utilized design approach seeks alternative methods rather than simply fixing the perceived design problem or task.   

I will present my research along with an exhibition in Rom 61, using micro-history by dissecting, deconstructing, and reassembling her brother's two page Asperger-diagnosis.   

By investigating the values and gazes placed on her brother and other neurodiverse people; as described by the majority, the project examines questions about identity and our relationship to the people around us - the ones we connect to and distance ourselves from. By first defining the other, we may then start to define who we are as individuals. 
 

Bio 

Thilde Dalager is a visual storyteller and authorial illustrator. Multi-disciplinary, she works across painting, printmaking, textiles, and time-based media such as paint-on-glass animation and cut-out animation.   

She is currently a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Bergen, Norway, working on an artistic research project titled The Face between Us, which explores illustration in an expanded field and the ethical role of an illustrator. 

The Face Between Us investigates the face as an entryway into discussions centered around our relationships and understanding of the other and the self within a framework of critical design practice.