MOXVOX

Lately I have been thinking a lot about ‘the self’ and self portraiture. During September, my 30 new things project got me thinking a lot about the celebration of ones self/image… hmm self and image! How exclusive are these two of each other, really? What do these two things mean in popular culture right now? With the bombardment of social networking and celebrity scandals and imagery, it’s almost like a race to be seen. What is my part in this circus? At times I truly feel that life is too short and one should have no qualms in the excessive portrayal of one’s image. But it this excess just for the sake of it?

Whilst under going my 30 new things project I dare say I indulged (for lack of a better word) in a few self portraits tinted with narcissism. Many may see it as nothing more. No doubt some may say this about many of my facebook photos also. So why have I found myself at this place…slightly obsessed with portraying ‘me’….perhaps it’s as my friend Robstar so kindly put it the other night…I am evolving! Am I subconsciously fearfully of the change being so constant that I need to attempt to document this change. Each self portrait being a slice of time. I will never be that person again. I kind of like this idea. I also like the idea that it push people’s buttons…but that’s maybe another story.

When I think of all this I can’t help but think of Cindy Sherman. Since studying photography at University I have always been interested in her work. Cindy uses herself as the subject in her photos, although they are far from being considered self-portraits. Always a different character in her work, Sherman communicates her views on women in society, their depiction in the media as well as raising questions regarding the modern world in general. Her photos have a distinct style and no matter what the message are always theatrical.

Although much more humourous and lighthearted, I guess my Tankgirl series touched on a similiar thing. And what girl doesn’t want to be Tankgirl!

…..and then there was my Dali-inspired attempt at being a man….

So OK maybe I’m no Cindy Sherman…but she no doubt influences and motivates me to not only feel at ease with using myself as the subject, but also use this medium as a valid form of art. It’s not narcissistic!! (ok maybe just a tiny, tiny bit ;]) presently I am devising an idea/project that will take this concept further.

I really love the daily self portrait projects people undertake…and 09h09 often makes me laugh. It’s the blog of Jean-Michel Gobet…he takes a photo of himself everyday at 9.09am…no matter where he is..the caption is in both french and english…an added bonus for people like me trying to learn french. And..he has been doing these daily arms length self portraits since 2002….Wow!!

Stay tuned for new MOOKIE adventures containing high amounts of narcissistic tendencies and cheap arms-length snapshottery!