2025 Finalists

“I sit in the workshop and pick at my nails. I sit in class and pick at my nails. I sit on the bus and pick at my nails. I work at the computer, take a break, and pick at my nails. I have to think of my next painting, the exhibition is coming up soon. I don’t know if I’ll have enough money for a canvas, I don’t want to ask my parents for money, I should be more independent at my age. I pick at my nails. Every idea is shit, nothing comes to mind. I pick at my nails. I just walked past someone I know, damn, I didn’t even say “Hi.” I pick at my nails. Maybe I should just stop painting and find a better job? I pick at my nails. I know there’s a good idea inside, in fingertips reach, I just need to grab it, but I still keep picking at my nails.”

The phrase “Left hand doesn’t know what the right is doing” has two meanings. In the Bible, Matthew 6:3, the phrase “…do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing,” refers to a charitable disposition, where one does not expect praise for performing acts of mercy or charity. The second meaning comes from a more modern day adaption, where the phrase alludes to two groups in a project not communicating effectively, leading to a disjointed or negative conclusion.

The artwork “Left hand doesn’t know what the right is doing” is both a mixture between the two phrases, an ironic nod and a literal statement. The artwork is a reflection of an incongruous relationship between the three key human elements – the mind, the body and the soul. A rift in this sacred relationship can be caused by many things and can present itself in a plethora of negative outcomes. In this case, it is presented as obsessively and intuitively picking at one’s hangnails. It is a symptom of a much deeper rift, that cosmetically is often viewed as repulsive or something to be ashamed of. The paintings serve as a way to rid oneself of the stigma and bodily result of anxiety and obsessive compulsions, simultaneously bringing awareness to a surprisingly common affliction.

(17/25)