In Dowling’s false/true self series the artist has embroidered text into vintage childhood handkerchiefs. Drawing on the theory of the ‘false and true self’ by British psychoanalyst Donald Winnicott, the artist explores the impact of formative years spent distorting or concealing one’s identity as a means of survival. Dowling utilises vintage fabrics and imagery from childhood as a reference to the coping mechanisms, traits and falsehoods we inherit from family. Incorporating seemingly innocent visual elements of circuses, baby animals and the hankie as a site for emotional release, the artist asks – Who can we be when we are finally safe enough to become ourselves?
You treated me like a threat. So I became one, 2026, hand embroidery, cotton thread on vintage cotton handkerchief, 37.5 x 36.5 x 4cm (framed), photos by Tobias Titz
