Abstract
This article investigates Sigmund Freud’s trauma theories and the presentation of loss, using video animations. The central research question is how peculiar to itself the artwork Loss portrays trauma and loss through miscarriage within the framework of Freudian theories regarding mourning and melancholia. I find that certain Freudian views regarding females and motherhood are inherently offensive and removed from contemporary ways of observing women.
Loss comprises a series of screens, dioramas and audio tracks exhibited in a darkened space. It includes seven video animations projected on large screens (15 x 6 m) and white artificial walls. Seven video animations form part of dioramas exhibited with miniature ceramic furniture and houses. Three video animations are displayed on small screens on a separate white wall.
I investigate trauma theories of loss and argue that mourning is a natural therapeutic way of dealing with and reacting to loss. Mourning encompasses knowledge of loss. It is also, in Freudian terms, the foundation of releasing one from the love object. In contrast, melancholia develops when mourning does not comprehend loss entirely and when the subject cannot detach herself from the love object. In this case, the mourner is in limbo, which indicates that the mourning process is delayed and the ego and love object become intertwined. This leads to loss of ego. This concept is explained through selected video artworks in Loss. The young woman who has experienced miscarriage is rooted in melancholia and in the process loses her self-respect and ego.
Keywords: emotional wellbeing; femaleness; loss; loss of ego; melancholia; miscarriage; mourning; Sigmund Freud.