In Kaitlin & John, part of Pierre Sernet’s Synonyms series, the figures are distilled into a minimalist composition where only the intertwined forms are visible, rendered as pure black silhouettes against a white background. The organic curves and points of connection between the two shapes suggest intimacy, yet Sernet’s choice to reduce them to abstract forms removes any defining details. This approach invites the viewer to interpret the relationship purely through shape and composition, without the distractions of individual identity markers.

The abstraction in this piece brings to mind the universality of human connection, emphasizing the shared experience of closeness rather than focusing on individual personalities or appearances. The viewer might interpret these shapes as an embrace, a conversation, or simply the subtle presence of one body near another. By capturing just the shadows, Sernet alludes to the idea that what connects us lies beyond the surface, within the unspoken and universal aspects of human interaction.

In Synonyms, Sernet seeks to strip down identity to its most fundamental aspects, removing superficial distinctions and allowing for the viewer’s projection and interpretation. With Kaitlin & John XII, he highlights the communion between two people, reducing their forms to something nearly symbolic, where each contour resonates with familiarity. This approach transforms the figures into mirrors, reflecting our own experiences and emotions, urging us to see ourselves in the silhouettes and acknowledge our shared humanity.