Doerte-Ina Liebing
40” x 40” (hand dyed cotton, linocut and linoprint, machine quilted)
A person’s face is unique. No two are alike in terms of shape, geometric arrangement and surface texture. Even in identical twins, individual characteristics are different.
The ability to recognize and differentiate between faces is normally acquired in the human brain within the first few months of life. Newborns are more interested in faces or face-like objects than anything else.
A partial or total lack of this ability is called prosopagnosia.
It is very difficult for people with this deficit to distinguish or assign people to other people. The faces don’t tell them anything. “One egg is like another.” You need to learn other strategies of differentiation. Those affected often have massive problems in everyday life. The woman who doesn’t recognize her father when he’s at the door unannounced.
Until a few years ago, this disease was considered extremely rare. But research has shown that around 2% of the population is affected.
It’s a great quilt and a wonderful way to shed light on this condition. The brain and how it works is fascinating.
What an interesting take on this prompt! I’ve heard of this, but it will take some practice to remember the word. Is there a name for THAT?!
Doerte-Ina, many who see your work and read this post are just now learning here about the prosopagnosia disease. Thank you for sharing, and for your strong and beautiful art.