AVELINO J. CORTINA IV

AVELINO J. CORTINA IV

he/him/his

Design Major and Architecture minor

Avelino J. Cortina IV is a Design and Architecture student at the University of San Francisco, deeply engrossed in the realms of UI/UX, publication, product, and graphic design. His education has laid a solid foundation in blending form and function, passionately enhancing usability and aesthetics to elevate user experiences. Avelino is a staunch believer in purposeful design, aiming to craft meaningful experiences that subtly enrich daily life. Join him on a design odyssey where functionality meets elegance, adding value to every interaction.

Mirrored Confessional

Mirrored Confessional is a personal and research driven project driven by the desire to construct an immersive space that not only provides solace to those in turmoil, but also aims to enlighten the uninformed. Mirrored Confessional  navigates the intricate dynamics between Catholicism and homosexuality, offering a sanctuary that is both therapeutic and welcoming. In the installation, a  singular confessional booth, encased in mirrors, offers a private realm where the visitor is engulfed in the introspective power of reflection. Encircled by four audio stacks, visitors are bathed in a symphony of confessions, personal stories, and uplifting messages, specifically curated for individuals reconciling their sexual identity with their Catholic roots. This auditory immersion is crafted to cultivate a communal bond, affirming that one is neither alone nor unsupported in their journey, but rather, embraced with open arms.

By stepping into the Mirrored Confessional, individuals embark on a voyage through the psychological intricacies of identity, repression, and the path to self-recognition, all under the guise of a Catholic heritage. The confessional’s mirrored walls and ambient lighting foster a secluded atmosphere ripe for contemplation. Here, looped narratives of conflict, denial, and eventual acceptance weave together, each narrative serving as a powerful reminder of the courage found in acknowledging one’s authenticity.

This project is profoundly personal to me. As someone who navigated the challenges of aligning my sexual identity with my Catholic upbringing, the creation of the Mirrored Confessional represents my contribution to offering what I once sought: a haven for deep reflection and healing. It’s a space where the collective voices of shared struggles and triumphs reverberate, encouraging an embrace of one’s true essence.

 

Confess!