2.3. Reflecting Oneself .....................1 : 2.1 : 2.2 : 2.3 : 3 I deutsch
After this intensive analysis of other peoples way of life I wanted to explore
my own identity.
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Reflecting Oneself developed mainly in the years 1990 - 1995 in our home
in Essen. I chose for this limitation of space in order to sensitize myself to the
impressions I receive from my surroundings. The work was inspired in part by
the interaction of familiar living spaces and changing light and shadow. Growing
flowers illustrate the passage of time. My intention was to reflect upon my frame
of mind and to creatively deal with it. I started to photograph the step-by-step
changing of my feelings. I wanted to make selfportraits which resemble my gaze
into a mirror. I wanted to fix a familiar sight.
Between the impulse in my mind to make a photograph of my present state of
mind, and the actual photographic result, stands the photographic method,
which creates a new situation. I install the camera in front of myself. In my mind
I hold a posture. Believing that this pose is true to my original feeling, I make
a photograph. I photograph my face without seeing it. Later, when I see the
photographs, I make a careful selection.
I document a process of self reflection. My motivation was to portray my
sensitive and thoughtful mood. Out of this process I was determined to
develop my creative abilities.