In Wake

In Wake

Baugh, Mason

I grew up influenced by conservative ideology. These ideas brought me peace of mind and sparked intellectual curiosity at a time where I questioned my self worth and mental capabilities. I found solace in the lack of change. Given time, I began to understand how harmful these ideas are – especially to people who don’t look like me. For the past ten years, hate has been given a megaphone - and has become normalized. As an artist, I try to understand other’s experiences and channel them in my work to trigger critical thinking processes regarding sociopolitical issues in my audience. I was led to further investigate the world around me - specifically through the lens of the body as a canvas for expression - by John Galliano’s 2024 Maison Margiela Artisanal Collection, which transitions between artistic mediums to express the psychology of experiencing a world that restricts and codifies yet is the breeding grounds for the realization of inner beauty. This led to “In Wake”, a video investigating the inner turmoil accompanying dehumanization in the experience of oppressed groups in the United States. Models are utilized in a dramatic rendering of America that portrays its consistent efforts to cast out minorities as part of a group rather than being recognized for their unique selves. “To persist in stride while forced to bear darkness, as each step is cast by the long shadow of death.”

2025