Samadi Weerasingha ABOVE AND BENEATH THE SURFACE (VIC)

Tell us how your artwork addresses this year’s theme ‘ We belong’: 

When I first reflected on the theme, ‘We belong’ I realised there isn’t one definition of belonging that represents everyone. Belonging is personal, constantly evolving and shaped by our experiences. Instead of trying to provide an answer I created two photographs that invite viewers to explore different perspectives of belonging. Although each photograph tells a different story, together they connect by one question: Where do we truly belong? 

Tell us about the ideas or themes your artwork explored with the theme ‘We belong’:  

Photo #1 Above the Surface 

Question: Does being surrounded by people always mean we belong? 

I chose a crowded public space because people often believe being surrounded by others means someone belongs. The person standing still becomes the focus, showing that someone can feel unnoticed even in a crowd. The motion blur represents how life continues to move while personal emotions remain hidden. 

Photo #2 Beneath the Surface 

Question: Can belonging begin within ourselves? 

I chose a reflection because it encourages us to look beyond what we first see. While the first photograph explores the outside world, this photograph explores the inside world. The reflection symbolises our thoughts, emotions, memories, fears, hopes, and personal growth. It suggests that belonging may begin not in the world around us but within ourselves, inviting viewers to reflect on their own journey. 

What type of art have you submitted and why?:

I submitted two conceptual digital photographs taken with a Nikon camera. I chose photography because it captures real moments while allowing viewers to interpret their own meaning. Using composition, light, moment and reflection, the two photographs explore belonging from both the outside world and the inner self.