5 6 7 8

5678 is about raising awareness about self doubt.

Shame and fear are inner demons that we all have to deal with on every day basis. I had to overcome many feelings and emotional obstacles by becoming a dancer, to even dare to step into a dance studio. My inner demons told me I wasn’t good enough, that dance was for girls and people would judge me for even showing a little interest in the matter. Negative voices in my head made me doubt myself, until recently when I turned on my demons and perused my dream. - I started dancing.

But how does one fight those demons, these voices in our heads ?

There is no one right solution but facing your fears is a great first step. By silencing one demon at a time you can achieve a lot.

This object that I have designed is just that - a protector against these voices.

I’m objectifying feelings and obstacles that I had to overcome by becoming the true me.

It is very human thing to think that you are constantly being judged or criticised by others. We are brought up in a sexist society where men and women should behave in a certain way. This results in fear of our true expression and we actually judge and criticise ourselves. Inner negative voices keep holding us down somehow, and are preventing us from doing what actually makes us happy.

For me an object like this is not a solution, it only stands for self awareness. It’s a reminder and it represents self-healing. Sometimes I need it - sometimes I don’t.

I want 5678 to make people think about self value and their own happiness…. What is holding you back ?

5, 6, 7, 8, I nerve myself 

Side glance here and there.

I’m filled with shame 

for my steps are judged,

voices resound, my heart flutters. 

Stand up but smell fear. 

But take the step, breathe in,

Focus my eyes,

Everything else is blurred.

Head high on my shoulders,

Rhythm beats, I count 5, 6, 7, 8. 

Think: “don’t put a foot wrong!” 

My broad back, smiling self,

shame gone. 

Heart undamaged, less flutter.

Voices fall silent.  

I’m in another world. 

The exhibition at Kjarvalsstaðir