Project 1 Artist Statement - Zine

For this project, I use Photoshop and Illustrator to create images that explore the hidden meanings behind popular nursery rhymes. Although we usually think of nursery rhymes as simple and fun songs for children, many of them actually have deeper, sometimes darker, origins. By reimagining the stories behind these rhymes, I aim to uncover the historical and cultural messages that are often overlooked.

In Photoshop, I manipulated photos to add layers of texture, color, and symbolism, creating an atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and mysterious. This helps reflect the old-world charm of the rhymes, while also hinting at the complexity of their backstories. With Illustrator, I incorporated clean, bold vector graphics that stand out against the softer photo elements. This mix of sharpness and softness highlights the contrast between the innocence of childhood and the more serious themes embedded in these tales.

The images I’ve created are meant to invite viewers to think more deeply about rhymes like Humpty Dumpty or Ring Around the Rosie. By breaking down the stories visually, I show how they might connect to real historical events or social issues from the time they were written. My goal is to make people reconsider these rhymes not just as entertainment for children but as reflections of the culture and challenges of their eras. Through this project, I hope to inspire a sense of curiosity about the past and how it shapes the stories we continue to share.