STAGED STILLS

This series of images was created by using myself and a photocopying machine in a unique exploration of identity and medium. Each photograph is like a small theatre where diverse portraits surface. The staged tableaux, places objects and forms in a surreal attempt to look behind deceptively familiar feminine facades. I am drawing from a wide spectrum of sources including: mass media, mythology and popular culture. These images consider how representations of women have influenced our perceptions of stereo types. Femininity is seen as a masquerade, as a performance role. By using my body as the model, it becomes possible to investigate whether there is a “true” representation of an essential personal identity which will appear behind the masquerade of the performed role. I use historical and traditional archetypes, incorporating them within the staging of roles. I find it amusing to use a machine of corporate culture to produce art concerning feminine issues. With this body of work I am continuing my experimentation of non-traditional equipment in an attempt to broaden the boundaries of photographic art.