To Melt

Author

Huanzhe Hu, Rhode Island School of DesignFollow

Date of Award

Spring 6-3-2023

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Fine Arts (MFA)

Department

Digital Media

First Advisor

Mark Cetilia

Second Advisor

Fletcher Bach

Third Advisor

Shona Kitchen

Abstract

This thesis focuses on the need for a reevaluation of the relationship between humans and nature in the face of the current ecological crisis. The author argues that the dominant anthropocentric orientation, which sees nature as a resource to be exploited for human benefit, has led to over extraction and resource abuse, disrupting the balance of ecosystems. Instead, the author suggests adopting an ethical framework based on mutual understanding and appreciation, breaking the "hunter's gaze" and fostering empathy for non-human life forms. This thesis also explores the potential for new forms of communication and engagement with nature, such as through art and media, to facilitate this shift in perspective.

The author's work as an artist centers on this reevaluation of the relationship between humans and nature, by using site-specific installations.

Comments

View exhibition online: Huanzhe Hu, Ice: Solar Etchings & Solar Captures

Recommended Citation

Hu, Huanzhe, "To Melt" (2023). Masters Theses. 1116.
https://digitalcommons.risd.edu/masterstheses/1116

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.