4D Assignment 1A: Unseeing

Our first project for 4D required us to use various method of editing, namely adding, subtracting, superimposing and substituting to create dynamic images which meant something.

The goal of my photo series was to express my inner thoughts and feelings. This is what I came up with:

Unseeing

Picture #1

superimpose

 Chrysanthemum is a flower that is commonly used for offerings/altars. The body is a temple, it is sacred and should be revered as something beautiful. I however feel insecure and it is shown through the position of my arms. The flower is also placed at my mouth because body image is something that I feel I cannot talk about. Flowers represent youth and vitality but at the same time, a flower’s bloom is short lived. This is comparable to the  body.

Picture #2

addition 

As much as I try to run away from my insecurities, I always feel cornered by them. Barbie dolls faced reasonable criticism because they presented an unrealistic and unattainable image of beauty/perfection. Insecurities can turn into obsessions and that’s why I’m surrounded by Ken dolls. Manifestations of ‘perfection’ and what is ‘appealing’ consume my thoughts daily and somehow I’m blind to people who are just like me. The framing of my photo is deliberate and meant to create a sense of claustrophobia.

Picture #3

substitution

What if I was perfect? What if I was a part of the ideal? This idea is presented in the photograph as we see my head attached onto the Ken doll’s body. The blank expression on my face challenges the belief that finally being perfect will bring happiness.

Picture #4

subtraction

The conclusion of this series ends with another thought. What if we didn’t have eyes? In the first sense, what if we didn’t have to base our ideals on the what we see in the media? Similarly, perhaps the only way we can truly be happy is to be blind to people. Looks and outer appearance often result in us making a first impression/judgment on someone we’ve yet to meet. Eliminating sight might make us less critical, towards others and also ourselves.

I had a great time working on this project as I personally love photography and photoshop. I faced challenges in getting props for the shoot. Initially I had planned to use a lotus flower but as they weren’t in stock, I had to quickly think of another flower that could still support my intended symbolism. I thoroughly enjoyed the entire process and look forward to the next 4D assignment!