Wallflower : A Series Of Composite Images I Created To Explore Perceptions Of Self.

If you have ever felt misunderstood, or like you blend into your surroundings then this series of composite images may resonate with you. Have you ever felt like instead of people being curious about you, they just filled in the blanks themselves? Sometimes going so far as to then tell YOU who you are? Wallflower is meant to express the dynamic of individuality even when others are imposing their perceptions on you. There are two choices, to accept what and who you are told to be, or find your own identity. At the end of the day, you might not be able to change anyone's mind, this is about being you anyways.

" We do not see things as they are, We see things as we are" ~ Anias Nin

Thie series really grew from the symbolism of the dresses matching the wallpaper. The idea being that a casual observer fills in the unknowns about a person with information provided by their surroundings or circumstance. I think for some people that may feel natural because it is consistent with their self perception. For me it has never felt comfortable.

The images mostly consist of self portraits, but I included two images of my daughter, meant to represent my younger self. The discomfort of other peoples assumptions as always been present in my life. At a young age I did not fit into the ideas other people had of me, and I was always aware of it.

I have no desire to run around expressing my truth to every acquaintance I come across. Nor is it even feasible to do so. I have had to accept that people will continue to fill in the blanks with assumptions, while internally I acknowledge my own self perception. This is where all the imaginative, and surreal elements come in. The colors, items and mood of each image are representative of themes, beliefs and personality traits unique to me. Playful, introverted, imaginative, transformation and much more is all touched on in some manner.

The question I want to leave you with is this... What do you see in yourself that others are missing out on?

If you feel comfortable sharing, please leave a comment.

IF you want to stay connected or see more of my work you can find me on Instagram @Wild_empress.