Who are we?
An exploration of the self and its surroundings.
Without a doubt, everyone has asked themselves the question: “Who am I, and what am I to others?” If you follow photo-journalists and their blogs like Human’s Of New York for example, you realize that everybody on the street has similar thoughts and problems and that you are not alone in your questioning existence.
In this article, we will explore two sides of this question, one extroverted, the other introspective.
In “Social Identity Quest”, by street photographer Simon Fidelis, we are taken along the streets of Hillbrow, a residential neighbourhood in Johannesburg, South Africa. The Tanzanian-born photographer shows faces of people both aware and unaware of his presence, resulting in a row of pictures with wistful glances and piercing stares.
Fidelis describes his experience as having ups and downs, one of the most common problems being the question “Why are you taking a photo of me?” and the heated debates that often followed. With this project, Fidelis wanted to explore the concept of the self, its relation to others and its surroundings.
The difference it makes when the subject is aware of the photographer is indeed noticeable; the change in mimic, posture and attitude all contribute to the photographs message.
On the other hand, when a subject is caught off guard, completely oblivious to the photo being taken, the picture takes on an air of secrecy. The viewer becomes a kind of voyeur, taking a moment to look into a stranger’s life.
What is our relation to the outer world? How do people see us when passing us by on the streets? This relationship between viewer and onlooker adds depth to Fidelis’ story, enhanced by his interesting angles and B&W contrast.
Now we direct our thoughts inward, as did photographer Ville Kansanen in his story “The Procession of Spectres”. The Finish photographer started this project after having an emotional experience that led him on quest to find his personality and identity.
“This body of work represents a step from behind the veil of ideas and techniques to find earnest revelations of my struggle to be whole with my fragmented sense of self.” — Ville Kansanen
Kansanen mentions the comcept of Inscape, derived by Gerard Manley Hopkins from the ideas of the medieval philosopher Duns Scotus. It is a concept that everything in the universe is characterized by what Hopkins called inscape, the distinctive design that constitutes individual identity.
In his work, Kansanen shows vast landscapes and a naked subject, exploring this theory in a beautiful artistic manner. The struggle between the self and the acceptance of its imperfections is portrayed through the subject being in different positions and relations to its surroundings.
The use of lighting and colour perhaps also shows a wish to conform, making the subject blend in with its surroundings, blurring the line between human and inanimate object.
The abstract feel to this row of photographs gives the viewer a chance to reflect on their own relationship to themselves. Whether they see themselves in the choppy dark waters or in the vast desert landscape, the viewer can decide what their own inner landscape could look like.
Seeing such works of art, coming from the two ends of the spectrum, might inspire us to explore our own inner landscapes or perceptions of the outer world. Being aware of our surroundings is what enriches the self and soul, helping us pick up on the beauty and contrast around us.
This introspective look on one’s self can also be a way to improve ourselves to the best of our ability. Are you happy with the way you are now? If not, what can you change to help become the best you can be? We aren’t perfect, but we can all strive to be as close to perfect as possible. We might not be able to change the world, but we can change the worlds of the people we meet in our life.
So, to finish off: Who are you, and what are you to others?
Rinse has invited lots of talented photographers from around the world to share their best works. If we haven’t reached out to you yet, and you also have a great story to tell, please don’t hesitate to come share it with us at Rinse.
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