THE GUY WITH THE STRIPES
My graduation project, titled “The Guy with the Stripes,” explores the intersection of existentialism and self-discovery. Throughout the project, I delve into the significant aspects of life that I have experienced in the past four years.
As an illustrator, I approached this project with sensitivity and transparency, using it as an opportunity for self-expression. Through six different illustrations, including self-portraits and exaggerated anatomical drawings of myself, I explore the nuances of the human experience.
“The Guy with the Stripes” is a deeply personal and honest reflection of my journey. Through my illustrations and storytelling, I hope to inspire others to embrace their journey and find the courage to explore themselves and their place in the world.
is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual freedom and choice, as well as the search for meaning and purpose in life. According to existentialism, individuals create their meaning and purpose, rather than having it determined by external factors such as society, culture, or religion. This series of illustrations can be seen as a representation of my journey of self-discovery and self-expression through my art.
The title of the series, “The Guy with the Stripes,” can also be seen as a nod to the idea of individuality and self-expression. The use of the word “guy” rather than a more formal or artistic term for myself, can be interpreted as a declaration of my humanity and relatability, as well as an assertion of my ordinary, everyday existence. The stripes on the t-shirt can also be seen as a symbol of my own unique, individual qualities and personality, as well as a representation of my creative energy and boldness.
The choice of stripes as a design element, the act of painting a self-portrait and the title of the series all serve to highlight my own beliefs and values, and my desire to express myself freely and boldly in a world that often seeks to constrain and conform.
This painting is a testament to the power of self-expression and the human spirit.
As I sat on the Girgaon beach in Mumbai, with the salty breeze brushing against my face and the sound of the Arabian Sea in the distance, I pondered on the concept of existentialism and serendipity. My graduation project revolves around this theme,
and this illustration captures the essence of what I believe.
I believe that serendipity plays a huge role in this journey of self-discovery. It’s those chance encounters, those unexpected twists and turns, that can lead us down new paths and open up new possibilities. It’s about being open to the world around us and seeing the beauty in even the most ordinary things.
In this illustration, I have tried to capture this sense of wonder and discovery, with the exaggerated anatomy style emphasizing the importance of being in tune with our own bodies and the world around us.
At the same time, this illustration is also about finding serenity in the midst of chaos. The beach, with its crashing waves and bustling crowds, is a metaphor for the constant ebb and flow of life. But even amidst all this noise and confusion, there is a sense of stillness and calm that can be found if we take the time to look for it.
I am reminded of the words of Fyodor Dostoevsky, who once said, “The greatest happiness is to know the source of unhappiness.” And for me, that source is the constant search for serendipity and the moments of wonder and discovery that make life worth living.
EXISTENTIALISM
SERENDIPITY
LONGINGNESS
As I stand in front of the hostel mirror, brushing my teeth, tears roll down my cheeks. I miss home, my parents, and my nani. The feeling of homesickness is intense and overpowering, like a physical ache in my chest. I constantly think about home and the memories shared there. The longing for home has taught me about the power of love and family, and the importance of what truly matters in life. I express my longing through an illustration, knowing that my heart will always be anchored to my family and our love will endure, no matter how far I travel.
