In this project I hope to convey my subjective experience growing up as a fraternal twin. Initial research into the effects of growing up as a twin revealed a distinct lack of material exploring the impact of twinhood on twins. There is an abundance of research using twins, largely identical twins, as subjects to explore a variety of biological and behavioral topics. There is much less research, creative or otherwise, that details information relevant to the experience of twinhood itself, particularly as it pertains to the formation of self. This thesis endeavors to translate my subjective experience of being a fraternal twin into an artistic project which can provide some insight into the realities of twinhood, in particular how it impacts self-conception. 

This project was created by first capturing photographic compositions meant to reflect the love and indescribable bond I share with my twin. These compositions were then used as references for drawings made with charcoal and paper. Charcoal is a humble yet powerful medium that creates a depth of value which mirrors the depth of connection I experience as a fraternal twin. Each mark on the paper builds upon the last, just as each moment spent together as twins builds upon a shared personal history. I found the experience of developing a drawing technique harkens to the developmental nature of the relationship between twins. My goal with these drawings is to capture the quiet vulnerability and exuberance that underlies the innate connection between my twin Mel and I.