“Summer Breeze,” by Jan Kirstein Rigor, 12″ x 12″, Mixed media, 2025.

Capturing the Turbulence of Displacement and the Resilience of the Human Spirit Through my mixed-media artworks, I explore the disorienting sense of displacement that occurs when individuals are uprooted from their homes and communities. Drawing from personal experiences of forced migration, I create collages that reflect the fragmentation of identity and the search for solace in the face of uncertainty. The Requiem of Solace Series is a tribute to those who have suffered loss, capturing acts of remembrance, reflection, and resilience. My artworks convey the emotional toll of displacement and the strength of those who endure it. Themes and Inspirations Displacement and Identity: Exploring the psychological state of disassociation from self and the search for belonging. Loss and Resilience: Reflecting on the lessons learned from watching others suffer and the importance of empathy. Aging and Awareness: Embodying the balance of loss and gain through life experiences. Artistic Process: I combine painting, drawing, and photography to create dynamic, layered pieces that evoke a sense of fragility and resilience. My use of repurposed materials and textures adds depth and complexity to the artworks.