As an art school student, the task of creating self-portraits is a familiar endeavor, rooted in tradition yet endlessly open to interpretation. While the act of capturing one’s likeness on canvas or through the lens of a camera is a fundamental aspect of artistic practice, I’ve come to believe that self-portraiture transcends mere depiction of physical appearance. Rather, it serves as a powerful means of exploring the intricate layers of identity, particularly in the context of my home city, Hong Kong.
In recent years, the question of what it means to be a Hong Konger has become increasingly poignant. Faced with social upheavals and political tensions, many of us find ourselves grappling with questions of belonging and self-identity. In this project, I seek to unravel the complexities of Hong Kong identity through a series of self-portraits that go beyond the surface level of facial features, delving instead into the nuanced fabric of cultural heritage, personal experiences, and societal influences.
At its core, this project aims to uncover the essence of Hong Kong’s identity, not as a monolithic concept, but as a rich tapestry woven from the threads of history, geography, and individual narratives. Each self-portrait serves as a visual exploration of the elements that shape our sense of self and inform our understanding of what it means to be a part of this dynamic city.
