For some reason I was thinking about the fact that many artists do self-portraits and how much the idea does not appeal to me. Anyway, as a result of this short contemplation, I came up with the idea of assembling a few objects of mine which might, perhaps, say something about me but in a different way. So, in a way, this is my alternative self-portrait. The wooden box contains a number of items that I use on a regular basis - some daily. I wonder if I had done this 30 years ago how it might compare with now!
10 comments:
what a cool idea and fun to explore. I think it would have been so interesting to see what would have been in there 10 years ago and from 10 years from now.
I enlarged the photo so as to get a better view of your "self cubbies." Most enjoyable.
For some reason I thought of the Magritte painting with the oversize comb and other personal routine objects. How we spend our days, the objects we use, do form a self-portrait, when assembled in the way you have.
Clever idea!
Great self-portrait, Philip. I totally agree with San's comment. One could go further and say that it is a much truer self portrait because there is no posing or posturing involved. There is no risk of a mask unintentionally finding its way into the self-portrait.
Jafabrit
Yes it was fun doing this and I agree with what you say!
San
I kind of laughed when you mentioned a comb - it is the one thing I don't have or need!! Was it the razor???
Seth
Thanks for your comment
Chris
You are right! How would I pose for the traditional self-portrait and what would it reveal? No, it wouldn't be me.
Picaso thought that every work an artist did was a self portrait. As artists we leave a trail of crumbs, bits and pieces of who we are, who we think we are, and who we want to be. Your wonderful box reminds me of 2 things. A time capsule, showing a snapshop of you at that moment. It also makes me think of the assemblage boxes of Joseph Cornell. i hope you explore this idea more and maybe even incorporate you paintings into it.
This photo is really great. A very cool idea. Yes, I think a series over time would be interesting.
Hi Philip, I am very interested in this piece...it conjures an intamacy that is very alluring to the viewer.
I almost feel I shouldn't peek!!!
Thanks for your comment on my site too...Jo
What a cool concept.
i really like this idea and concept.
much more enlightening than the usual self portrait im sure.
be interesting to get other people to do the same.
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