A Place Set Too Soon

My installation explores child marriage and the loss of childhood that occurs when a child is placed into adult responsibilities before they are ready. I decided to focus on child marriage because I was interested in the contrast between childhood innocence and the expectations placed on young girls through marriage. I wanted to show how something that may appear beautiful, such as a wedding, can hide a much more serious reality.

The wedding table represents marriage and adult responsibilities through the plates, glasses, cutlery and candles. I included tiny plates and a small chair to show that the person expected to sit at the table is still a child. The teddy bear represents childhood and innocence. The broken and scattered teddy bear pieces on the floor symbolise the loss of childhood caused by being forced into adulthood.

The pink satin represents femininity, youth and the traditional beauty associated with weddings. I created this contrast between beauty and discomfort to make the viewer question what is really being represented.

Overall, my installation communicates that children should have the freedom to grow, learn and experience childhood before taking on the responsibilities of marriage.