Yining Fu

Poor Social Skill Ring

My research subject explores and creates metaphors and visualizations of the helicopter parenting in childhood and its impact in children’s life. A realistic, organic shaped bird body part acts as a metaphor for the results of helicopter parenting. A non-realistic, or geometric bird body part is a metaphor for my effort to adapt into new life. A doll body part is a metaphor for the pressure and manipulation/control from parents. (Photo: Yochen Liu)

“The “immature/ignorant” concept is shown in two ways: a baby bird and the replacement of the eyes. When trying to adapt to a new environment, I typically lack the skill to socialize properly because I was previously grounded for so long and was exposed to improper manners. My skills are underdeveloped like a baby. I only receive information that is offered by the adults; therefore, eyes are replaced with hands. The non-realistic wings represent my effort to adapt to a new world. This concept is clarified by the physical movement of pushing the wings manually. The mechanism is very wobbly; however, the audience will gain control of the wings gradually with practice.”