Mark Kadota

These paintings and text are intimate interior voices of a variety of imagined characters.  I find that we all share a range of emotions and it is through this awareness that empathy is born. This series of artwork attempts to explore different facets of emotional trials that one goes through when they face their identity as a minority.  I also explore the climate of our social attitudes that can color the way we form beliefs around our identity and the way we treat others and ourselves. 

I have mainly focused on issues that surround the process of coming to terms with being Gay.  My motivation is to create a sense of understanding of the challenges that accompany the Gay community.
These paintings and text are intimate interior voices of a variety of imagined characters.  I find that we all share a range of emotions and it is through this awareness that empathy is born. This series of artwork attempts to explore different facets of emotional trials that one goes through when they face their identity as a minority.  I also explore the climate of our social attitudes that can color the way we form beliefs around our identity and the way we treat others and ourselves. 

I have mainly focused on issues that surround the process of coming to terms with being Gay.  My motivation is to create a sense of understanding of the challenges that accompany the Gay community.

Unlike other minorities, being Gay can often be easily concealed.  This can bring on unique challenges of self-acceptance, denial, or being “closeted”. Often people struggle with their identity.  This can create a sense of isolation, loneliness and confusion.

Often discrimination towards minorities includes silencing their voices.  Without a voice, marginalized groups are often misunderstood and myths about them are perpetuated.  This also adds to the feeling of isolation to this group.  It can damage a sense of self, a sense of pride and sense of belonging.  A feeling of shame and possibly self-destructive behavior can be the possible outcome. 

There is a human desire to be included and find shared feelings.  Honest expression often leads to building bridges of understanding and dispelling misunderstandings.  Intimate communication can lead to a shared common feelings and a sense of unity.  Hopefully one becomes aware of a sense of belonging.

The process of this artwork is to create mythical portraits and imagine what their stories and dialogues would be.  I purposely choose to make the faces in a state of confrontations or transitions.   I tried to capture the emotions that are expressed when one is going through a struggle or reflecting on a difficult situation.