THE PRINCE'S SON
36 x 36 inches2024
With the traditional norm that the role of a father is to "provide and protect", other aspects of
parenthood are often overlooked as the expectation of care and tenderness for a child is left
solely to the mother. This reinforces harmful gender roles where emotional unavailability is seen
as 'what makes a man', resulting in many fathers finding it difficult, or simply unnecessary to
form proper bonds with their children. A cycle is born, where kids grow up with neglect and thus,
become neglectful parents themselves. This piece acknowledges fathers (and father figures)
who consistently make effort to be involved in every aspect of parenting. This is a celebration of
the compassionate and nurturing amongst fathers for they are of true nobility.
This piece is modeled after my father - who is also a prince, hence the title. Through him, I
learned what it means to unlearn and grow as a parent and as a person, and most importantly
got to bond with him while bringing this to life.