So I had the idea to wrap up my model Anna Blachut in clear cellophane after she agreed to provide me with a nude back to shoot. I didn't have a clear idea on what I would draw or write on the cellophane but the idea of using the human body as a canvas struck me as something interesting to explore.
My main inspiration to pursue this project comes from Gaia Weise's work. I came across this series while I was browsing artwork from summer program alumni at the San Francisco Art Institute. I think that using someone's back as a canvas definitely added depth to the image as the appreciator is now looking at two canvases (photo paper, back.)
I'm not talented in drawing so I decided that the outcome of the art on the cellophane would be better if I wrote words on it.
I feel that insecurity is a very big issue for a lot of teenagers, especially in high school. It's a time when people discover and experiment with their identities, a transition between childhood and adulthood, and it's messy! A lot of people go through phases in their life where they fit perfectly into a "niche" or a label that's already been created, most of the time because it's easier to assume an identity that's already been given to you. I saw an episode on One Tree Hill a while ago called "A Picture of You." The character of Brooke Davis used a projector to project words that other people have used to define her in a condescending manner.
The photos
Location: My apartment bathroom
I decided to write derogatory labels on the cellophane which is wrapped tightly around my model's torso. This represents how she is trapped within the image her peers have created for her and is unable to attain a healthy self-image until she breaks free. I later added the words "Don't let your self drown" in eye liner to add emphasis to my message, and added the element of water (bathtub) to further express the metaphor.
I love the pose in the picture. I think that it's beautiful in its vulnerability which is shown by her shoulders being slightly slouched, her head bowed and the hand that is covering her head.
This is one of the earlier shots (before I wrote the phrase in eyeliner.)
I got this shot by standing on a stool.
My friend Adam Thibodeaux edited the following image:
I think it expresses the horror aspect of this issue very well and is quite an attention-grabbing image.
Music can make a huge impact on the outcome of work, as it sets the tone and vibe.
Playlist:
Another Way to Die - Alicia Keys and Jack White
Closer - Kings of Leon
Hell is Around the Corner - Tricky
Post-project evaluation:
I think that this project was a success as I am content with the shots and I believe that my message comes across well in the photographs. However, I think that if I had more knowledge on how to use editing programs such as Photoshop, some of the images could be more effective.
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