THOMSAS UHLIR '24

This work reflects my journey of growth and maturity as shown through cars, something that has been incredibly prevalent in my life.  Questions that guided my investigation are: How can I use different media, processes, and techniques to illustrate various emotions connected to my love for cars at different stages in my life? How can I create parallels between the condition of my toy cars and different stages of my life using varied drawing applications? How can I illustrate the uninhibited nature of my childhood through drawing techniques and physical application in a space?

My experimentation began with car photos which I took to a more personal level by exploring the resting place of my dad’s classic Jensen Healey. I then found new ways to explore the meaning of cars to me showing how I have grown. I started experimenting with drawing my own photos in line. Then, thinking about how to portray growth and emotions, I used different techniques: blind, sighted, and cross-contour lines.  I found that I can convey emotions through drawing in ways that photos can’t. I used Hot Wheels tracks to create an image of speed and many directions and relate it to my childhood.