Shadows follow us everywhere we go and are interpreted so differently in so many contexts. Perhaps this was the reason we saw so many varying expressions of this issue’s theme: shadow. A shadow may be connoted negatively, something that hides those too nefarious for the daylight. On the other hand, one can portray them as saviours of those who seek protection and a hiding place in their dark embrace. It can be one’s best friend, always by their side or one’s enemy ready to strike them down. One might try to escape it or sink into its familiar comfort. It may represent self-growth or hidden traits. It might be one’s own, or another’s. A live being’s, an object’s, death’s… It could even be Peter Pan’s, mischievous and rambunctious in its nature. It may present as an unwanted blast from the past or a curious look into the future. But alas, whether friend or foe, a shadow connects us all, in the sense that we all have one. Thus, dear reader, as you read and view the creative and wonderful works of this year’s first issue, ask yourself, what does the theme of shadow mean to you? 

 

Enjoy your DIVE,

Mazal Aliefendioglu, Sena Kılcan