Scars are not just physical marks on the body; they can also be emotional and psychological, yet they remain just as real and long-lasting. In ‘Roads Less Traveled’ I use scars as a powerful symbol to explore the deep, enduring wounds that war leaves on individuals and societies alike.
The woodcut technique is central to my approach, chosen for its ability to mirror the raw, brutal nature of these emotional scars. The rough lines and deep cuts in the woodblock reflect the harshness of war, adding texture and weight to the image. This technique doesn’t just create a visual impression, it physically embodies the trauma and disfigurement that conflict causes, both to the land and its people. The coarse marks give the image depth, making the scars feel palpable, as if the artwork itself is wounded.
When viewers stand before the piece, they are confronted by these etched scars, which serve as a visual reminder of the destruction caused by war. These marks do more than just represent injury; they symbolize the merging of two identities or sides of a conflict. The scars reflect the reality that, despite being on opposite sides, individuals affected by war are more alike than different. This introduces a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, suggesting that conflict does not erase the humanity that binds us, even when war seeks to divide.
‘Roads Less Traveled’ challenges viewers to think more deeply about the true cost of war, how it reshapes not only landscapes but also the lives and identities of those who live through it. By focusing on the lasting impact of war’s scars, I aim to encourage others to question their assumptions about conflict, identity, and what it truly means to endure such hardships.
Ultimately, this piece speaks to the deeply personal journey of healing after trauma. While scars may be painful reminders of the past, they also represent strength and resilience. I want to remind viewers that, even after unimaginable suffering, the human spirit has the capacity to survive, adapt, and heal.
Title: Roads Less Traveled
Medium : Wall sculpture
Material: Wood, black ink
Size: 35 x 46 cm
Year: 2023
Exhibited at Indigo Art Gallery parallel to International Journalism Festival 2023, Perugia/Italy as part of group exhibition ‘The journey after scars’
michael(a) Daoud 