Narcissus (on tall steel base) Sculpture - Limited Edition of 12

As modern humans we live in a technological age, where we are exposed to instantaneous connectivity, with a global audience. The internet and mobile technology are changing the way we communicate and interact. We can access anything we want, whenever we want it, and wherever we are. Social media platforms such as ‘Facebook’, ‘You Tube’, ‘Instagram’, and ‘Twitter,’ present fake realities, creating a sense of inadequacy in one’s ability and appearance. Vanity and arrogance (the negative traits of one’s persona), are promoted as acceptable, as the selfie is embraced into normal cultural practice. This deluge of imagery and information has created a set of shared problems, including, loneliness, isolation and despair. Social scientists and mental health organisations are attributing this deluge to increased cases of depression and suicidal thoughts. In addition, there is a change in the way we are communicating, as we progressively rely on the written and spoken word using a screen. Physical face to face contact is considered no longer essential in conveying emotion, ideas, and information. Essentially messages are frequently misconstrued, as our full range of communication tools, including body language and facial expression are not seen. Disconcerted, disconnected relationships, a loss of empathic ability ensue, as we spend more of our time engaged with technology.‘Narcissus’, a bronze and steel sculpture by Teresa Wells MRSS (2018), is inspired by this modern dilemma. How do we survive this social and emotional adversity? The sculpture’s title, draws reference from the Greek myth of the vain youth that fell in love with his own reflection. Unable to establish a relationship with another, the self-obsessed and isolated Narcissus was compelled to end his own life.