Award winner sets out in black and white need to challenge expectations

Erin Smit’s striking image forces the viewer to reassess what they think they are looking at.

SANDRA DICK

reassess what they think they are looking at.

Ms Smit, 17, from Larkhall, Lanarkshire, said her work was aimed at challenging societal expectations.

“No matter who you are or where you are, expectations are placed on you from the day you are born,” she said.

“Most are there in the hopes of helping us become a better person or to learn and gain knowledge to become a new and wiser version of ourselves, but as we get older, as we become more aware of everything around us, expectations can start to take a turn and enforce old-fashioned values and toxic relationships.”

Adverts, television and movies depict how society expects men, women and minorities to act, she added.

“To overcome this, we can look into ourselves and figure out our own expectations for ourselves and turning away from the pressures that outside sources can put on us.

“By doing this and looking away, we are giving ourselves the power to be comfortable and happy within ourselves.”

The John Byrne Award encourages young Scots to explore and express their own personal values.

It offers a platform for people aged 16-25 working in a range of creative media, including painting, illustration and writing to video, audio and music.

Each month a highlight is chosen by the judging team for the entry that has the most potential to encourage others to consider their values. It receives a £100 cash prize.