The History of Hands
The History of Hands was born out of an idea that everyone’s hands can show a story. This story can be in a callas, cuts, dust, scars or paint. I am here to tell the story behind hands of workers, travellers, guitarists, carers, nurses and everyday people.
These are the hands of a worker, more specifically a mental health worker who has worked in the industry for over 30 years. These are the compassionate hands of a nurse, mother and friend. The presence of a single gold band indicates commitment and love and although seemly older, these hands have a rich history and hold memories of travelling, making food, and painting, hugging, gardening and dancing.
These are the hands of a mother, wife, daughter and sister.
There is a quote that states “It takes a big heart to shape little minds” and these hands help the smallest in our world to grow and learn. These are the hands of a childcare worker and they pick children up when they have fallen, wipe away tears and create activities for our newest generations. You can see remnants of paint and this is a childcare workers tattoo that these people can keep as a secret badge of honour.
These are also the hands of a loyal friend that will help you in times of need and this image signifies openness and helpfulness that is found in a simple open palm gesture.
If you need help, I am here.
These hands are that of a traveller that calls Australia home but is a Korean by birth. Wanting to live in Australia and gaining a visa comes at a cost! The cost can be working nights at a supermarket, rural farm work or any small jobs that prove they are motivated enough to stay here.
These hands work long nights when everyone is sleeping and has travelled long distances to find a new place to call home. These hands represent the seeking out of new and interesting places and the people that inhabit them. To look at these hands, you wouldn’t think they have experienced hard work! The trick is to never judge a book by its cover.
These are the hands of a creator, artist and musician. They are of great importance when making, as humans use their hands to hold, pluck, touch and feel. These hands represent creativity and hard work, but also the willingness to learn a new skill. Some hands hold the key to music, woodwork, construction and painting. Artistry is left in the hands of these people.
To create something with your hands provides a sense of self-worth and accomplishment that only a creator can understand.
A comedian will know that you use your hands to express how you feel and to add a certain dimension to your jokes. These are the hands of a multitasker and care giver. These are the hands of caring and understanding person whose job is helping people with the day to day activities and making others laugh.
Selfless and friendly is what they represent.
These hands are that of a vocal artist who entertains people through the use of slights, jokes and amicable banter. Who best to care for the elderly and support people in the later stages of their lives.
The hands of a student represent those of a person who seeks out knowledge and becomes richer from education. These hands are used to while away the hours writing assignment and sending emails to respective faculty.
When we start learning new things we open ourselves up to a sense unpretentious and humble learning that brings us down to earth and creates a sense of recognition for the craft. These hands should be respected and admired for working towards a higher education and pushing through the obstacles that present.
