ARTIST STATEMENT
4/23/25
Masked Presence
Masculinity as it is described by those around us; closed off, always on edge, refusal to explore options that are right beside us. A confident stare is contrasted by a closed off appearance.
Secluded Strength
A commentary on the expectation of strength and aggressiveness as a man. At best, these qualities are used to protect oneself and those around us. At worst, it is used to hide from oneself and affect others in the process.
Metamorphosis
The realization. Anxiety, grief, regret, and panic depicted. The subject’s appeared strength is not enough to carry the weight of feeling trapped in a false perception of themselves.
Opening Doors
The subject dressed in white attire paired with a bouquet of flowers represents the newly obtained open minded nature to femininity, though, still worrisome as depicted from the hood.
Satellite
Man and woman, dressed in replicating attire, with the woman holding the bouquet of flowers this time around. The image is a depiction of letting go of the closed off persona, and letting the other, more feminine side of themselves guide them.
To Flourish
A depiction of pure exploration with no guilt, shame, or expectation. This is the realization of being free from the boxed they were once placed in.
Backstage
A final glance at their perception and the choices they have made. Behind the mirror lays all the potential options they were given. Within the mirror is someone who is unsure, yet in anticipation.
Spotlights
The final appearance. A direct display of the feminine aspect of the man. The confident look in masculinity remains present in the image, yet, it is surrounded by the wonder and creativity of femininity. Both factors allow for any labels to be broken, and all that remains is an authentic expression of oneself.
BACKGROUND
The entire collection was taken using a Nikon FE 135 (35mm) Film Camera, self-developed and printed at Wayne State University's "Old Main" on glossy resin-coated paper, and later digitally scanned.
Each photograph (with the exception of cropping) has been left completely unedited. This is to showcase in detail the results of the tedious printing process. Every flaw, imperfection, and moment of beauty all arrange in the printed radiation to create a foreboding atmosphere.
The photo order and placement is also intentional, and differs depending on the device you're using. A landscape monitor will show the collection in the intended format, while the portrait (mobile) version will display only one photo at a time.
Masked Presence
Secluded Strength
Metamorphosis
Opening Doors
Satellite
To Flourish
Backstage
Spotlights
EXTRAS
Scraped photo that originated during the initial creation process. This first version of the project consisted of Secluded Strength, Backstage, Spotlights, and this untitled photo.
