Body as a Canvas

Photo Series

This series is called Body as a Canvas and was created in 2017. In combining various mediums I aimed to address different layers of identity and how our physical appearances might reflect the uniqueness within each individual person. Using both colors and abstract shapes, I demonstrated my translation of each person’s identity based on interactions I had with each model as I carefully observed the ways in which they carried themselves, spoke, moved, etc. I also wanted to show how manipulating outer appearances can influence the way people might see them from the outside. Some people may choose to show exactly who they are on the outside while others might hide behind a mask or try to blend into the crowd unnoticed.

Once I had developed a concept for each model I began the lengthy process of painting and photographing. I applied acrylic paint to the faces and upper bodies of my models, taking up to 4 hours to paint and another 1-2 hours to photograph. While this project was very time consuming it was worth the final product. Taking on roles of art director, photographer, and painter allowed me to experiment with various mediums which has become a consistent theme in my work as I try to incorporate multiple mediums as I continue to create.

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