Curatorial notes

Incongruencies of My Youth reflects Bernstein's ongoing examination of memory, identity, and personal history. The painting's layered imagery, symbolic figures, and skeletal central form suggest an archaeological excavation of the self, as though fragments of the past are being uncovered and reassembled. The accompanying poem is brief yet revealing, describing a search for truth within the contradictions and unresolved experiences of youth. Rather than offering clear answers, Bernstein embraces the complexity of memory and the ways in which childhood continues to shape adult identity. Through raw symbolism and emotional honesty, the work becomes an act of self-discovery, inviting viewers to reflect on the inconsistencies, mysteries, and formative moments hidden within their own personal histories.