**sem·blance** (noun) – outward and often specious appearance or show.

Semblance explores experiences of the self as sculpted by context. At times, one can experience their private, most expansive self as their true self. In other moments, a performative cutout is needed to conform to one’s environment. Through its various manifestations, the work dwells on the tension between displaying the private self as a form of liberation, and amplifying the performative self as a form of suppression.

The collection draws inspiration from my childhood as an Indian-American growing up in Atlanta, where I felt pressure to conform to the cultural norms and expectations of those around me. This nurtured conflicting perceptions of my public and private identify – a dilemma depicted in Semblance through a reimagination of the weavings and textiles from my childhood home.

Each Semblance is a unique blend of color, diffusion, and environment. Its appearance is shaped by the suppression of a distinct focal point that dictates its context. Ultimately, the viewer is invited to toggle between the two states and explore that tension within themselves.

**–– Controls ––**

– **Press ‘m’** or **click/tap** to toggle between the selves. The output may take many seconds to load.

– **Press ‘s’** to save a .png.

Semblance #0

Semblance #29

Singular, yet infinitely interpretable, the sun radiates light, warmth, and beauty, embodying diverse meanings throughout the history of human existence. Interpretations of the Sun is a curated set of ten outputs from an algorithm, a personal perspective on the sun, drawn from poignant moments in my life.

Whether it’s a sunset over the horizon... [read more](https://rahul.fun/interpretations-of-the-sun).

Sun Splash

Semblance #136

Darkness Awaits

Semblance #129

Semblance #110

Semblance by rahul iyer

Sun Burst

Singular, yet infinitely interpretable, the sun radiates light, warmth, and beauty, embodying diverse meanings throughout the history of human existence. Interpretations of the Sun is a curated set of ten outputs from an algorithm, a personal perspective on the sun, drawn from poignant moments in my life.


Whether it’s a sunset over the horizon, a hike through majestic mountains, or the comforting warmth emanating from the flickering flame of a lighter, the sun is reflected in countless human experiences. Each pixel is intricately woven from the fabric of my upbringing with layers of cultural significance and personal experience including inspiration from the vibrant colors found in depictions of the Hindu religion. This is not merely a portrayal of the sun; it is a visual symphony resonating with the interplay of nature, culture, and the tapestry of my own journey.

Interpretations of the Sun

sem·blance (noun) – outward and often specious appearance or show.

Semblance explores experiences of the self as sculpted by context. At times, one can experience their private, most expansive self as their true self. In other moments, a performative cutout is needed to conform to one’s environment. Through its various manifestations, the work dwells on the tension between displaying the private self as a form of liberation, and amplifying the performative self as a form of suppression.

The collection draws inspiration from my childhood as an Indian-American growing up in Atlanta, where I felt pressure to conform to the cultural norms and expectations of those around me. This nurtured conflicting perceptions of my public and private identify – a dilemma depicted in Semblance through a reimagination of the weavings and textiles from my childhood home.

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