kunal sen
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freedom

We all yearn to be free—to do things we desire. Yet, it feels out of reach. There are internal barriers created by my own mind. We keep postponing our desires to an uncertain future, hoping things will become easier.
As we grow older, we expect fewer things to magically fall into place. I tried to list all those limitations and realized why most of us struggle to feel free. Some of these can be overcome, but conquering them all is not easy.

trapped by familiarity

​2025
23" x 18" x 2"
acrylic on board with wires

What is familiar isn't always the best, but it's known. Leaving my home is hard. Moving away from family and friends is tough. Familiar ideas provide comfort..

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trapped by knowledge


​2025
23" x 18" x 2"
acrylic on board with wires

I seek knowledge. However, every piece of knowledge constrains my thinking. The power of knowledge lies in its ability to bring order out of chaos. But randomness often sparks creativity, and we strive to break free.​

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trapped by ideology


​2025
23" x 18" x 2"
acrylic on board with wires

Unlike belief, ideology is born out of reason. However, as soon as we give that reasoned conclusion the status of an ideology, it becomes inflexible. It creates a framework that we must accept without question.​

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​trapped by belief


​2025
23" x 18" x 2"
acrylic on board with wires

Belief of any kind is unconditional acceptance of an idea. It is not constrained by reason. Once we accept a belief, many avenues of thinking become impossible.​

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​trapped by responsibility


​2025
23" x 18" x 2"
acrylic on board with wood

Taking responsibility is admirable and appreciated. However, it comes with making the tough decision between acting responsibly and following personal desires.​

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trapped by comfort

2025
​23" x 18" x 2"
acrylic on board with wood and coins

Comfort is our evolutionary prerogative. We naturally prefer comfort over hardship. But very few emotions put up such a strong fight against freedom.


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trapped by love

2026
23" x 18" x 2"
acrylic, wood, wires

With love comes commitment. With commitment, we close some doors


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trapped by safety

​2026
23" x 18" x 2"
acrylic, wood, wires

Known paths feel safe. But there are so many that have never been taken 


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copyright Kunal Sen