Quantum Entanglement
“In the field of quantum mechanics there is something called quantum entanglement. It is what happens when two particles interact, vibrate in unison, and are separated. They remain connected by something that defies logic, something science has yet to explain. If one particle vibrates, no matter the distance, the other particle reacts in unison. Even if there are oceans between them, even if there is a universe separating them.”
-Tyler Kent White, Songs With Our Eyes Closed
These complementary pieces depict two figures who symbolize human exploration. They each aim to discover and expand our knowledge on the two places most unknown to us: Space and the Ocean. Yet, these characters are depicted not only alongside one another, but even connected to each each other in the first piece. In an environment combining both of their atmospheres, with water nearby as they stand on an unrecognizable planet, these two figures contradict the “realistic” difference that we would assume to be between them. They are two figures -two forms of exploration and discovery- who should not be associated with one another, yet they seem to coexist peacefully and naturally with one another in this piece.
These pieces were created in an attempt to visualize the human need for self-discovery and mental expansion. While the topic of human discovery typically focuses on physical, territorial growth (humans have an inherent history of searching for and claiming land, territories, and the general unknown) the topic of expanding the mind and one’s personal “self” is acknowledged less often. Perhaps that is because physical expansion -dramatic conquests, tangible discoveries- are easier to discuss, as they are rooted in an objective truth rather than a subjective belief or need.
This piece focuses on the intrinsic desire to expand one’s mind and capabilities. Society tends to place restrictions on the individual’s mind and perceived potential. In an environment where numbers -one’s GPA, weight, income, medical bills, age, etc.- are regularly used to determine worth, the weight of the world’s expectations can become so powerful as to limit one’s goals, personal drive, and perceived capability to succeed and grow. In many cases, individuals with high aspirations might avoid working to achieve that dream due to the simple fact that they do not believe that their current lifestyle or “worth” could ever really allow them to reach that big goal.
Yet, if we could all defy social pressures and apply our intrinsic human drive for exploration to our own minds -to our “self”- then we would come to discover that our potential is not nearly as limited as we allow ourselves to believe. We tend to deny ourselves the ability to grow due to a belief that our seemingly “unrealistic” goals and do not align with reality. However, we can learn to break that self-drawn boundary. Like quantum entanglement, our dreams -despite how far from reality they may seem- can exist in unison with ourselves and, with enough personal drive, we can grasp and solidify those dreams. We can coexist and grow with goals and aspirations that we typically might not expect to even see within our general realm.
