‘TETHERED’ by Lefan Feng (Francesca) – How do we live with our mothers’ love?
Lefan Feng, known artistically as Francesca, presents a compelling exploration of the intricate dynamics within the mother-daughter relationship through her series of digital illustrations titled "Tethered." With each artwork, Francesca delves into the multifaceted nature of the bond between mother and daughter, using the umbilical cord as a central motif to symbolize both nurturing and constraint.
In the first illustration of the series, we witness the mother strongly guiding her daughter, on a path resembling the umbilical cord. The image exudes warmth and intimacy, capturing the unconditional love and interdependent relationship between mother and child during infancy. Francesca's attention to detail is evident in the delicate rendering of the figures and the subtle interplay of light and shadow, evoking a sense of serenity and maternal bliss.
This depiction resonates deeply with East Asian cultural values, embedded in Francesca’s identity, where the mother is often revered as the primary caregiver and protector, and the daughter's reliance on her is seen as natural and indispensable.
As the series progresses, Francesca skillfully portrays the daughter's journey towards independence, juxtaposing moments of closeness with glimpses of tension and conflict. In the second illustration, we see the daughter struggling to break free from the umbilical cord that binds her to her mother, symbolizing her desire for autonomy and self-discovery. The use of vibrant colors and dynamic composition underscores the emotional intensity of this pivotal moment, as the daughter grapples with the weight of her mother's expectations while yearning to forge her own path.
In the third and final illustration, Francesca captures the evolution of the mother- daughter bond as it transcends dependence and matures into a relationship based on mutual respect and understanding. Here, the umbilical cord is depicted as a delicate thread, no longer tethering the daughter to her mother but serving as a symbol of their enduring connection. Through the daughter now flowing gently, Francesca conveys the complex emotions of love, acceptance, and liberation that define this transformative moment.
In East Asian societies, daughters are traditionally seen as extensions of their mothers, carrying the family lineage and expectations for their success and prosperity. This cultural framework adds layers of complexity to the mother-daughter relationship depicted in Francesca's illustrations, as the daughter navigates the delicate balance between honoring her familial obligations and asserting her own individuality and aspirations.
Looking closely at each artwork, Francesca's mastery of digital illustration shines through, from the intricate details of the characters to the nuanced storytelling. Her use of digital techniques allows her to seamlessly blend traditional illustration with contemporary manipulation, resulting in artworks that are both visually striking and emotionally resonant.
In her artist statement, Francesca expresses her belief in the transformative power of art to evoke emotion, provoke thought, and inspire change. With "Tethered," she achieves this and more, inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences within familial relationships. Francesca’s series delicately captures the interplay of love, duty, and autonomy that characterizes this timeless relationship between mother and daughter.
