This project, rooted in my ongoing queer exploration, delves deeper into the transformative journey of the queer body through the symbolism of the butterfly. The butterfly, with its vibrant and ephemeral nature, is a perfect metaphor for rebirth, fluidity, and the ongoing metamorphosis of queer identity. Central to this extension are key elements that further illustrate these themes—a large pink butterfly, a swarm of butterflies in black shadows, a grass-green backdrop, and Kaikai enveloped in a cocoon, eventually breaking free and transforming into a butterfly.

The pink butterfly is not only a symbol of delicate beauty but also a representation of the softness and strength that coexist in the queer body. Pink, often associated with femininity, is reimagined here as a powerful force of resilience and self-affirmation. The black butterflies cast in shadow reflect the unseen struggles, the invisible pain, and the latent power within the queer body—those parts of the identity often hidden or suppressed. These dark butterflies remind us that transformation, while beautiful, can also be dark and filled with hardship. The grass-green background evokes a sense of growth, renewal, and harmony with nature, symbolizing the fertile ground for change. It calls to mind the connection between personal transformation and the environment, as well as the beauty of queer identity blooming within a complex and often challenging world. The background also signifies a return to nature, where growth is not linear but cyclical and organic.

The cocoon, a significant element in this visual journey, represents the confinement and constraints often felt in the queer experience. Kaikai’s body, wrapped within the cocoon, speaks to the process of self-reflection and internal struggle. The moment of breaking free from the cocoon symbolizes the release from societal pressures and the embracing of one’s authentic self. This powerful transformation process mirrors the liberation of queer identity, where growth is not only an outward change but a deep, personal metamorphosis.

In our conversation, Kai described their imagined transformation: “I imagine myself as a butterfly. For me, the colors of butterflies are not just beautiful—they are a celebration of life and individuality. As I envision the butterfly gliding effortlessly through the sky, it evokes a sense of boundless freedom, a liberation from the constraints of the earth.” This project captures that essence—depicting a visual narrative of change, liberation, and self-expression. The breaking of the cocoon into flight represents the liberation from societal constraints, while the butterflies’ fluidity highlights the dynamic, ever-changing nature of queer identity. This work extends the symbolic journey of transformation, reminding the viewer that the act of becoming is ongoing, personal, and ultimately powerful.