My midterm project is centered around the idea of Metamorphosis. I came up with this idea to showcase the transformation from my insecure, unsure, secluded self to the mature, confident, bold person that I've become.
I used the process of assemblage to execute this. I thought, what better way to execute my idea than to use the insect that goes through the process itself? So, all of my materials are assembled on the model of a butterfly. I decided to showcase my transformation by contrasting my old self with my new self on the model. Hence, the black and white vinyls. The black represents a shadow; that which is behind me, so all of the objects and images on that side represent who I was. On the other side, the white represents the new me and so the objects and images also reflect this.
The overall subject of my image/project is my transformation. It centers around me from a teen, to now. The contents used to compose my project are as follows: clumps of hair, used to represent my actual hair; black and white vinyl, used to show the contrasting images; cardboard, used to make the vinyl sturdy, as well as the question mark; clippings from magazines, used to compose words; and pictures, used to represent me, my family, a crown, used to represent my worth, and comments from my Instagram.
The black side, my old self, features the hair, the word 'Yes,' a question mark, a picture of me looking shy, and pictures of my Instagram comments. I used the photo in the center to represent the shy me and connect all my old characteristics. I included the hair because for a long time I let it become the center of my beauty. It was the main thing that everyone complimented me on. I began to focus a lot of attention on my hair and ensuring it looked a certain way, at all times. I believed that in order to be noticed, my hair needed to always be curly and neat. Next, the word 'Yes,' is used to represent me being a people- pleaser. I always felt like I needed to please people in order for them to like me or to stay away from conflict. I was afraid of saying no to favors. Thirdly, the question mark is used to represent the time in my life where I wasn't sure what I wanted do with my life. I had no clue what my purpose was. I also felt like everyone was opposing my career choice and even started to wonder if they were right. Lastly, the Instagram comments are used to represent me always seeking validation. I used those comments to measure my worth. If no one commented on my pics, I automatically thought they were ugly.
The contrasting side, the white, features, the photo of a bold me, the word 'no,' a crown, and the clippings of magazine names. The photo of the bold me is used to represent me now. The word 'no' is used to represent me being unapologetic. I no longer care to please others. The only person I wish to please is God. I no longer care what people think of me. Thirdly, the crown is used to represent my confidence. I know that I am worth it and there's no one that can tell me different. Treat me like I'm worthy, and with respect, or don't bother at all. Lastly, the names of the magazines are there because I'm sure of my career as a Journalist. I no longer care what others think of it. It has to do with my purpose and passion so I'm sticking to it.
Now, in the middle of both these concepts, and possibly the most important thing on the board, are the words 'Holy Bible.' My transition is centered around God and his word. I know my purpose and worth because of what his word says. I, now, try to live by those words and continue to grow in Christ. Lastly, the antlers of a butterfly helps it to balance when flying so it is no coincidence that I placed my mom and sis there. They have both helped me balance my life.
The artist that influenced my self portrait is Mickalene Thomas. She puts a piece of herself and tells a story in all of her artwork. We may have not used the same technique but I also wanted others to see me in my project, as well as tell my story. I used one similar technique and that was painting. For the others, I simply cut, paste, and assembled the objects to execute my idea.
I loved the concept of your self-portrait. I think you portrayed the dichotomy very well we saw the old you to the left of your project as someone who looked for validation from others and cared what they think to the new you on the other side being carefree and shifting your focus all through the holy bible where you centered in the middle of the butterfly.
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