The artwork titled “When I Was Young” was created by the artist Louise Bourgeois in 2008, in the United States. This piece is executed in the medium of etching and is representative of the Confessional Art movement. Although classified as an installation genre, what we see before us—a work comprised of fabric and etching—perhaps evokes the notion of mixed media rather than a traditional installation.
The artwork reveals a composition that juxtaposes etching with textile elements. On the left, there is a seemingly hand-drawn figure or pattern with undulating lines that flow vertically down the piece, almost resembling cascading hair or flowing water. This gentle, organic form contrasts with fabric swatches assembled on the right side, which showcase a variety of patterns and textures. Floral motifs dominate the fabric elements, introducing a combination of different colors and designs stitched together to form a patchwork. The distinction between the etched drawing and the fabric creates a dialogue between fluid linearity and structured textile composites. The artwork’s signature, “LB,” finds prominence in red at the lower right corner, providing a final personal touch that underscores the confessional ethos of the piece.
