Self-portraiture has been the primary means through which I have explored the facets of my evolving identity ever since I was a young teenager. Through it I have been able to process some of my most difficult, painful, and confusing lived experiences. My photos are how I am able to understand what and why I feel. My autobiography could thus be represented by over a decade's worth of self-portraits, most of which have not been seen by anyone but me.
Those who know my work have been telling me to sell it, to work professionally with it. My response to this has thus far been to curl inward into my shell, understanding this encouragement as something hollow and baseless.
This year I am making my art a priority. I am trying to get my work seen by larger audiences. This prospect unnerves and excites me in nearly equal amounts.
In this submission I am taking a step outside of my comfort zone. I am exposing myself to the public on a potentially large scale. I am curious to see what--if anything--comes of this. I am open to whatever does.
