Self Portrait Performance

"Burning Pile" Alanna Ciarlandini

    In my Self-Portrait performance, I chose to do something that relays a simple yet sour message. I was unable to upload a video to the blog but thankfully images are enough to express this process of relinquishing. In this series of photos, you will find discouraging messages that I received from people growing up. These messages are written from multiple interactions that I remember the most from both males and females. Although some messages might come off as disturbing to some I cast them aside considering that I am now mature enough to know that they do not define me. 

My inspiration was drawn from Sophie Calle. Calle’s works provide the message of letting go and the healing that follows up after doing so. Today we can all agree that mental health has become more of a concern due to the introduction of social media. Filters can be used to conceal and distort a person’s features in an attempt to make them more “physically attractive” in the public’s eye. People begin to get accustomed to these newfound images and develop preferences toward others’ images. Social media conditions us to believe we should possess a certain figure or face and if unable to we are automatically deemed unattractive. Social media is something that can corrupt the human mind when it comes to imagery and the message here is we should not fall victim to it. This same message goes towards the comments and rumors people decide to emit against you. Even though social media is a huge factor in this issue of self-image words cast onto you in real-time are just as harsh. No message or action should ever make you feel shaken by another person, especially if they have resulted from projection. Never change who you are to appeal to your addresser. 

 “The exploration of self-invention provokes questions about our relations to the material world, to consumerism, possession and the fashion ethic, and how these have influenced the semiotics of appearance.” (Finkelstein) I want my self-portrait to be a product of awareness and inspiration for those who find it challenging to embrace their own image. Healing is not something that occurs overnight. It requires patience and dedication to fully mend a wound. Be patient with yourself and give your body the nurturing it deserves because one day it will be thankful you did so. Strengthening your mind is a great place to start. Do not be fooled by the false images and accusations made by others and remain true to yourself.