Research Paper Introduction

My research paper explores the question: What drives individuals to transform into animals, and how do they express this identity? I investigated psychological, social, and aesthetic motivations behind self-transformation, focusing on individuals who intentionally reject societal norms to construct new identities.

One of my key sources was “Meet the Lizard Man” by National Geographic, which follows Erik Sprague, a man who has undergone extreme body modifications to resemble a lizard. Through interviews and observational footage, the video presents transformation not just as physical change, but as a deeply rooted mindset. Sprague describes himself as an “outcast by design,” emphasizing intentional identity creation rather than passive difference.

This research revealed a common thread: transformation is often about reclaiming autonomy and breaking away from societal expectations. Individuals like Sprague are not simply altering their appearance—they are redefining what it means to exist authentically. This idea became the conceptual foundation for my visual and narrative work.

Surreal Composition Project

My Surreal Composition Project visually translates the themes from my research into a constructed world. It is directly connected to my World-Building Project, where I developed a narrative centered around transformation, identity, and societal rejection.

In this composition, I explored the idea of humans becoming “Animables”—beings that embody animalistic identities not just physically, but psychologically. Inspired by Erik Sprague and others like him, I created a surreal environment where transformation is normalized and even ritualized.

The piece introduces elements from my world, including early references to the cult and its ideology. The surreal style allows for exaggeration and symbolism, reflecting the tension between societal constraints and personal freedom.

Artist Statement

This piece explores the tension between societal expectations and individual identity through surreal transformation. Inspired by real-world figures like Erik Sprague, I examine what it means to intentionally become something “other.”

The composition represents a world where transformation is not hidden, but embraced. The distorted forms and unnatural environment reflect both the beauty and discomfort of breaking away from societal norms. By exaggerating physical features and blending human and animal traits, I aim to challenge the viewer’s perception of identity as fixed or natural.

Ultimately, this work questions whether becoming something different is an act of rebellion, self-discovery, or both. And ultimately asks us what do we do to stay part of our own communities?

Behind the Scenes: Process

This piece was not created in isolation—it was shaped through constant collaboration, conversation, and shared creativity. Throughout the process, I worked closely with my peers, especially Serena Brown, exchanging ideas through FaceTime calls, quick sketches, and iterative feedback.

We would often screen-share, building off each other’s ideas in a way that felt fluid and supportive. Our group’s thoughtful and kind approach to giving feedback helped refine my vision without ever limiting it—our conversations pushed the piece to become more intentional and layered.

These collaborative practice pitch sessions became a space where experimentation felt safe. Rough sketches, half-formed ideas, and spontaneous edits all played a role in shaping the final composition. This process emphasized that creativity isn’t always linear—it grows through dialogue, trust, and the willingness to share unfinished work.

World-Building Pitch Video

My World-Building Project expands on the ideas introduced in my research and surreal composition. It follows Hanzo, an Animable, and explores a society where individuals undergo transformation as part of a larger ideological movement.

The narrative introduces the origins of a cult centered around these transformations—“Creatures of the Cult”—and examines how belonging, identity, and rebellion intersect within this world.

Reflection

Creating a whole new world with four other creative minds was truly inspiring.

I realized that transformation is not just logical or ideological—it is emotional, symbolic, and often contradictory. There is both freedom and isolation in becoming something different, and a power in using your imagination to create a story.

This project helped me see that world-building is most powerful when it connects deeply to real human experiences. By grounding my surreal world in real motivations, I made it feel more believable and impactful.