Caitlyn Dolphin - Privacy In Public

In Privacy In Public, the process of oil painting formalizes familiar environments such as the living room, laundry room, or dining room. While immersing myself in pseudo-domestic spaces, including furniture stores and laundromats, I noticed the homelike state those around me sank into.

The subjects of my paintings are unaware of my presence, with reference photos being taken in public spaces without their knowledge. By contrasting an invasive method of documentation with the tender application of oil paint, I examine themes of surveillance, closeness, and ethics. The result is an exploration of how the private identity appears in public spaces.

This body of work critiques the isolating nature of current socialization while embracing feelings of sonder and curiosity of everyday surroundings. I’m fascinated by using domestic elements to create a dynamic that feels intimate and vulnerable, yet guarded.