"Semicolon", a project on self-harm, pain, disease and scars from art

Abstract

This work mainly deals with self-harm that has caused scars on the skin due to suffering from mental illnesses, but it also addresses some of these ailments, aggressive body aesthetics with one's own body, consensual violent sexual practices and body art that leads artists to hurt themselves. The objective of the study is to help people who have experienced or are going through a disease that leads to self-harm, to promote understanding for those who cannot understand or do not know why there are others who inflict harm on themselves, to contribute to reduce the taboo and social stigma that this entails, give greater visibility to the problem and gain acceptance from people who suffer from it. The methodology used is qualitative, based on a theoretical and analytical documentary review, in addition to the development of a personal artistic-photographic project, which applies art as a means of expression and therapy. The results help people who get to self-harm for various reasons or to cope with their disease, not be ashamed of it, seek help and follow treatment. They also help to make the viewer understand what is behind a self-inflicted mark on the skin and to reduce social rejection of these people.