Me Myself and Eye

I often feel like there’s a second version of me in every conversation, listening in, taking notes, and constantly thinking about what to say next. It’s like I’m hypervigilant, always trying to make sure there are no awkward silences and that the conversation flows naturally. 

While this helps me stay engaged and responsive, it can feel exhausting and artificial at times, as if the interaction isn’t truly organic.

That said, this tendency shines at work though. When someone is speaking, “side-me” is busy analyzing their words and preparing a thoughtful, well-structured response while I’m still processing what they’re saying.

It allows me to give my best answers and stay sharp, but it’s not something I can easily turn off.

This duality inspired the design of this rug. The overlapping faces and vivid colors represent the constant presence of “side-me.” The multiple eyes symbolize hyperawareness—always observing, analyzing, and anticipating. 

The swirling patterns and sharp contrasts reflect the internal tension of balancing focus and overthinking, while the fragmented nature of the features mirrors how this dynamic can feel disjointed and exhausting.

The bright reds and blues signify the energy it takes to maintain this mental state, with one side leaning toward action and engagement, and the other toward reflection and planning.

Together, these elements capture the coexistence of these two selves—an interaction that feels both vibrant and overwhelming.

At its core, this rug illustrates the beauty and complexity of living with such heightened awareness. It’s a part of me that I value but also struggle to navigate, and through this piece, I’ve tried to give form to what often feels intangible.