PROJECT : "Look, it's me we're talking about...."
OBJECTIVE:
This project is another exercise to develop artistic attitudes and "ways of seeing". The concepts of what an image shows and what an images "says" by inference and association are very important aspects. The subject of the images is a self-portrait. Perhaps more correctly, a pictorial essay of who and what you may be.The central "goal" of this project is to develop an awareness of images and nonverbal communication. To "see" beyond the obvious, to become more sensitive to relationships, implications, and associations of images and ideas. To be able to differentiate subject and subject matter, concept and content, and literal and implied meanings. In short, to see and think like an artist.
REQUIREMENTS AND CONSIDERATIONS:
1. The subject of the pictures for this project is the photographer. A self-portrait. Do not submit a school year book type of mug shot. A formal portrait is not the object of this project.2. Like most of the projects for this class, the truth of the image is immaterial. The images are to be about what kind of person you are, or would like to think you are. The interest is not what you look like, but an image that conveys some sense of your personality, likes and dislikes, and what might be your other outstanding personal characteristics . The assumption upon which you work is that there is an unique combination of pictorial elements you can present in a slide which is sufficient for a viewer to recognize that the image is about you.
3. Utilizing the various pictorial options available to you, select situations and props which can convey your identity through association, inference, illusion, and/or literal translation. In many ways this project is an exercise in dealing with stereotypical images as a basis for communication.
4. As is the case in many fine art self-portraits, you yourself need not be in the image. It is sufficient to demonstrate "you were here", or that your presence is implied. Try to go beyond the more obvious and expected renditions of self portraits. Perhaps you could include elements which you might be initially hesitant to show. Since truth is of little concern, have some fun and expand upon ideas and fantasies you might have of yourself. Go beyond being as egotistic or as egocentric as you have ever dreamed you could be, extend your imagination. It's okay to be "off-the-wall" with your images, just don't lose your self-respect. After all, these images are a product of your efforts, and are a reflection of your attitudes and concerns.
5. The type of image you chose to make is entirely up to you. There is no "right" or "wrong" way of doing this project. There are only images that communicate and elicit response, and images that are dull and boring. Avoid the boring kind.
6. When you are shooting your images, remember to try to bracket your exposures. You might find that a darker or lighter rendition of your image may be better in presenting your ideas.
7. Submit one or more prints. Each print should be of a different ideas or points of view. Remember, quality is much more important than quantity in grading.