MY WORK IN OTHER MEDIA
Artist Statement
Through a science fiction narrative paired with illustrations, I explore the intersection of cosmic physics and human psychology. I chose the medium of illustrated fiction because novels allow me to construct imagined worlds while reflecting aspects of our own, and illustrations materialize the unimaginable by giving visual form to spaces beyond direct experience.
The creative process presented unexpected challenges. Working with concepts from physics required extensive research to establish a convincing scientific framework. I found that creating believable worlds demands the same precision as physics itself, and I navigated complex questions surrounding society, civilization, and power structures while exploring political themes without prescribing clear answers or moral judgments.
I deliberately crafted characters without clear heroes or villains. If a viewer finds the work simply entertaining, that alone fulfills the my intentions.
Terminal Isolation does not seek to provide definitive answers.
Terminal Isolation
Rena Rao
2026
Digital illustration, manuscript, office installation
Variable dimensions