Amber Thompson

Harrisdale Senior High School

Year 11

Mixed-media collage

31cm × 40cm × 2.5cm

My mixed-media collage explores my experience with social anxiety. Created on a wooden panel using printed images, acrylic paint, cardboard, glitter, and a rotating Lego mechanism, the artwork depicts a stage representing my fear of public speaking. Kasey spins to symbolise racing thoughts, while the eye behind her reflects the feeling of being constantly watched and judged. The tomato audience represents my expectation of criticism, and the clouds symbolise mental fog. Glitter patterns, inspired by drawings from my friends, represent their support and acceptance. Butterflies flying away from the stage symbolise growth, resilience, and my journey towards overcoming anxiety.