Materials: Acrylic on Canvas – Framed
Year: 2023
Dimensions: Height 16″ x Width 20″ x Depth 1.5″

Reflection – Self Worth or Self Expression?

I ask you to ponder the evolving nature of self-identity in the age of the selfie. The use of a reflective surface was my way of creating a metaphor for the way many individuals engage in the act of self-presentation today.

Reflect on whether our self-worth is chiefly shaped by how we perceive ourselves when capturing that perfect selfie, or if it’s profoundly influenced by the reactions and validations we receive from our virtual audience. The image in the mirror, in this context, is not merely a physical reflection but a representation of our digital selves, complete with filters, captions, and hashtags.

Think about the extent to which our self-worth is derived from our inner convictions and self-acceptance, as opposed to the external world’s gaze through the lens of social media. I think it challenges us to consider whether our self-expression in selfies is an authentic portrayal of who we truly are, or if it’s often shaped by societal pressures and the desire for likes, shares, and comments.

The balance between self-worth and self-expression has taken on new complexities. It encourages us to engage in introspection and reevaluate our values, actions, and the authenticity of our digital selves in the quest for recognition and approval on the selfie stage. Ultimately, it asks us to navigate the dynamic landscape of self-identity and social media with a deeper understanding of our true selves and the personas we project through our selfies.