What lies Within

Unity, 2023

Unity is a series consisting of large format (4×5) and digital self-portrait images in which I envision myself in a safe haven; a vast open field. The location of a vast field is a particular and special place as it is where I dream of being whenever I feel troubled. By appreciating the beautiful landscape, reflections of bodies of water, and nature itself, I start to feel free. Here, I am able to forget all anxieties, conflicts and problems. Here, I am transported to a space with no limitations, obstacles or boundaries. As I become immersed in this fantasized place I start to find a sense of inner peace within. Through authentic, delicate dance-like gestures and relaxing on the field it’s as if I’m finally allowing myself to become one, thus creating a sense of unity.

^{_{Installation view: The Show 2023, May 11-25, 2023, Emily Carr University of Art + Design, stairwell heading down to the Reliance Theatre}}

Other images from the Unity series

The Change in Us, 2022

I’m intrigued by the effect and power a photograph has on us specifically in relation to memory and friendship. However, what happens when we can no longer hold on to those dear to us? In The Change in Us, I revisit archival-charged images investigating the fallout and loss between myself and my friend group.

In this series of works, I try to revive past intimate moments my friend group and I shared through photo manipulation. Once transformed I place the image on carefully replicated backdrops. The images themselves become submerged while extending off of certain elements within the original. The result is my attempt at reimagining and reliving core memories in a fabricated space.

The Change in Us serves as my way of mourning, the loss of connection between my friends and I. While one might deal with severed relationships confrontationally or verbally, I’ve responded artistically fueled by emotion. These altered images express care for myself and my friends at a distance. We are no longer how we were before, however, the interaction between time, space, past images and the present has allowed me to accept the harsh truth of not being able to hold on to those closest to you.

^{_{Installation view: Capture X ECUAD: Looking After: Photography as an Act of Care, Apr 2-30, 2023, Emily Carr University of Art + Design, Michael O’Brien Exhibitions Commons: Zone 4 1st Floor Gallery}}

_{^{Installation images by Khim Hipol}}

Other images from The Change in Us series

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Home is Where Myself is, 2022

I often find comfort in being alone, although at times I wish for someone to be by my side. In the series, Home is Where Myself is, I conjure up the feeling of what it’s like to be your own best friend. 

This series of photographs are taken in the comfort of my own home. I specifically position myself in sites where I feel most myself, such as the bathroom, kitchen, closet and bedroom. Spending ample time in these locations my curiosity takes over. What would it look like to have another person enjoy the same space and activities as me? The feeling of unrequited self-love is something I long to desire, so through photo manipulation, and doubling myself, these fantasized scenarios are brought to life. Through staging, performing and becoming playful in various scenes I become a stand-in for myself, filling the void of absence.

These images of imagined double self-portraits express how the feeling of home starts from within. We can be our own best friend, at times our worst enemy but most importantly, acknowledge that sometimes all we have is ourselves. 

Other images from the Home is Where Myself is series

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Persona, 2022

Persona is a self-directed photoshoot series in which I explore my love for fashion. As I cycle and perform through various flamboyant outfits I present a persona that I deem true as opposed to the public sphere. I constantly wrestle with myself as I have trouble identifying hidden qualities of my character, reality, and the world around me. Thus turning the camera inwardly, the self-portraits I create capture thoughts and emotions I would otherwise have difficulty communicating.

Other images from the Persona series

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What’s Left Behind, 2023

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Gifts from the Neighbourhood, 2023

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