In this term, the focus of my personal project was on the implementation of Amazonian medicinal plants in cancer research. Throughout the span of 3 weeks, I conducted research to write an argumentative essay on ethnobotany in cancer research and what that means for our futures. 

In Vietnam, I explored the efficacy of applying acupuncture to treat chronic pain. Throughout the term I researched the different techniques of acupuncture: dry needling, electro-acupuncture therapy, and more. I also learnt about different acupoints and their effects on the human body system. 

During this term, I was engaged in expanding my artistic horizon and skills by taking up pottery. I explored the historical context of pottery and how different demographics influenced pottery techniques, materials, and the application of pottery. Using the knowledge I've gained from research, I created my own pottery piece as the summative for this personal project.

This module has been quite the interesting journey for me—especially in my art skills. Initially, my perception of carving was to follow the lines we had outlined for our image. But, through feedback with Kelsey and Saila, and our artist mentors, I learnt that you don't carve what is traced, you carve different textures to form the image you desire. It was challenging for me to adopt and apply this idea partially due to my inexperience in carving and my focus on the end product rather than the process. However, once I opened myself to the critique I recieved, I created a new piece, which looks starkly different from my original, for the better.  This process allowed me to form a better understanding of carving as a medium of expression and of the artistic process in curation of a piece.