Ryza Elisha Adriano Artwork

Stepping Beyond the Page

ceramic, ink, and watercolour

"Stepping Beyond the Page" reflects my interest in pushing past creative limits and moving beyond societal expectations placed on identity and self-expression. I chose a Converse sneaker because it has long been connected to individuality, rebellion, and personal freedom. While it began as a basketball shoe, it later became a symbol within punk, grunge, and hip-hop cultures, communities that challenged norms and shaped how I understand self-expression.

In my piece, I combined ceramic, ink, and watercolour to blur the line between illustration and sculpture. Forming the sneaker in ceramic gave it weight and
permanence, while bold ink lines and loose watercolour washes allowed the surface to stay expressive and free. The painted water scene represents change and movement, while the lily pads suggest balance and growth. Placing the shoe above the water makes it feel as though it is stepping out of the page, symbolizing my desire to move beyond fixed structures and expectations. Overall, this work represents personal growth and my choice to explore identity, creativity, and self-expression more freely beyond societal limitations.