Vera Ryklova|artist|Dublin|Aesthetic Distance

Aesthetic Distance ©2015

PROJECTS

features a series of performed photographic self-portraits.

This project developed from my interest in self-portraiture and has begun my exploration of the link between the photographic act and the liberating emotional discharge.

Aesthetic Distance is a photographic exploration of desire and the sense of self within the concept of social and cultural belonging. At that time motivated by my state of longing as a single woman entering her forties and feeling of alienation, the work confronts these emotions rather than portrays them literally. The theme is clearly associated with my intimate life, but its depiction possesses elements that allow for different layers of interpretation. At times the role-playing attitude shifts between gender, loss of identity, my foreign origin and self-perception, in a manner that provokes but does not denounce. Creating multiple connotations within each image to leave a sense of confusion paired with intense gaze is the intention, as I demand from the audience to challenge the learned and the ingrained perception of one's self while bringing the performing aspect of social encounters to their attentions.