Vision Shattered

Vision Shattered reflects Mitchell Van Dis's journey with vision loss and how it reshaped his experience of connection. Losing sight in his right eye profoundly changed how he perceives and interacts with the world.
Limited vision can cause disconnection and withdrawal. This artwork expresses that struggle, the tension between isolation and the desire to reconnect. Layered wood at the centre creates depth and chaos around the “eyes”, symbolizing the inner conflict of losing sight and the feeling of being cut off from deeper connections. The chaotic layers echo loneliness and separation, like being drawn into a world where reaching out becomes harder.
Flowing forms surround this core, representing the search for connection despite barriers. These elements strive to escape the depths and find new ways to engage, even when the direct path is blocked.
The sides of the glasses reflect a key realization: connection isn't limited to one sense or way of seeing. Despite obstacles, other paths to meaningful relationships remain.

Mitchell Van Dis is an artist who pours his heart and soul into every piece he creates. His journey as an artist has been deeply influenced by his background in Industrial Product Design and his personal battles with mental health. Some of his biggest challenges, including depression and psychoses, have profoundly shaped his artistic style, as he channels the chaos of his mind into his work. For him, art is a sanctuary—a therapeutic medium that helps him navigate the labyrinthine paths of his own consciousness.

His artistic style reflects the intricate chaos within him. Flowing forms intertwine and dance across his compositions, evoking movement and fluidity. Repetition and layering add depth and complexity, inviting viewers to explore the details and uncover hidden narratives and emotions. Grounded in a minimalist lifestyle and a close connection to nature, Van Dis approaches his work with presence, clarity, and intention.