October 27, 2023
Today, I made a decision to bring my photographs to life, allowing them to weave a collective narrative. I've often struggled to connect the scattered fragments of my creativity into a cohesive, and multi-layered story. It's easy to become disoriented, frustrated, or overwhelmed by the intricacies of one's own mind. There are times when I simply yearn for a clear creative project to materialize effortlessly before me, and when it doesn't, I'm left with a sense of disappointment and impatience. In reality, my mind brims with ideas that need to be released, expressed on paper. Writing helps me see what can be discarded and what should be further explored.
Today marks the start of my new series, 'Embodied Conversation.' I placed a selection of images in front of me and allowed them to challenge me. It was almost as though I was examining another artist's work, endeavoring to decipher their intended message. The quest to understand what we wish to convey, who we are, and what we aspire to learn or teach is no simple feat. This initiates a profound psychological and emotional exploration, a journey into the depths of the psyche. How does one delve deeply into self-discovery? How does one uncover their essence? How do you engage in the inner work that paves the way for clarity and transformation? How can you determine your purpose and the work you are meant to do?
In 'Embodied Conversation,' I embark on a journey into the world of photography as a medium for intimate, embodied dialogues. Rather than relying on words, I extend an open invitation to my subjects to embrace silence, allowing their bodies to narrate their unique stories through the eloquent language of movement and stillness. Here, emotions are unveiled, and the unspoken needs of specific body parts are conveyed.
To guide others in their profound explorations through being my subjects, I must first delve into my own depths, on my own. In this project, I'm willing to invite others to connect with the stories held within their own bodies. To prepare for this, I've started paying closer attention to how I reconnect with my body through art. I decided not to limit myself with one artistic medium for now.
This week, my body spoke loudly to me, and I listened attentively. I was menstruating, and this time, I connected with my menstrual blood like never before. I felt a strong urge to use my blood as a precious form of paint. Although it felt unconventional at first, once I overcame my fear and limiting beliefs, I tapped into an inner alchemist, embracing my inner witch. I marveled at the richness of the red, heard my blood's narrative, and bore witness to my own sacrifice. I observed the fluidity of my blood, its unwavering determination to chart its own path, taking risks without regard for the boundaries of the paper. My blood is free and fearless.
My focus was on my belly, where the blood represented my womb's expression. I paid heed to its message this time, which conveyed a sense of empowerment, a monthly release from feeling small. Perhaps, in the end, it all comes down to listening—almost as if you're hearing your own heartbeat for the very first time...
My explorations will continue week by week, and I extend an invitation to you to do the same, in your own way, to hear your unique voice and manifest your individual journeys, whether it's alongside me or on your own.