Through Hardship to the Stars

This project delves into the powerful role photography played in my personal evolution and how it became an essential tool in shaping my self-image and body perception. As I navigated the challenges of growing up in a complex cultural environment, I often found myself grappling with deep insecurities that affected my relationship with both my appearance and identity. Photography became my escape — a way to step outside of the harsh internal narratives I had about myself and see my image from a more detached, objective point of view. At the outset, my self-portraits were intentionally ironic, using humor and exaggeration to distance myself from the pain I felt. These early images were a way of acknowledging my discomfort with how I saw myself, but they also became a way to confront and transform that discomfort. Over time, these staged, over-the-top portraits evolved into more genuine, raw photographs that captured moments of vulnerability in my daily life. These candid images were less about performing for the camera and more about honestly engaging with my feelings and experiences. Through this process, I began to confront the struggles I had with my identity and self-worth. The photos allowed me to explore various aspects of my personality, expressions, and emotions that I had previously hidden or ignored. As I became more comfortable with myself through the camera’s lens, I started to embrace the beauty in my imperfections and acknowledge the strength in my vulnerability. The act of photographing myself helped me develop a healthier relationship with my body, moving beyond the critical, external voices that once dominated my self-image. It was no longer just about how I appeared but about how I felt and the deeper truths I discovered about my own inner strength. Through the art of photography, I not only saw my external image in a new light but also began to appreciate the complexities and layers of my inner world, ultimately leading to a more empowered and authentic sense of self.