Who to Define

In my series "Who to Define," I explore women's journey from societal constraints to self-discovery. Through stages of detachment, external definitions, and breaking barriers, the work highlights how unity and support foster true identity and freedom.

Who to Define: A Journey of Empowerment Through Photography

For this project, I chose the form of black & white film photography, aiming to explore the themes of Girl Power and the interplay between individuality and community through my photographic series titled Who to Define. This series unfolds in four stages: I. Detached, II. Define, III. Discover, and IV. Devine.

In the first stage, "Detached," models are dressed in white to symbolize societal expectations of purity and obedience imposed on women. This color choice reflects the pressure to conform to narrow definitions of femininity. Despite showcasing different styles of white clothing, the women remain shrouded in these unconscious norms, highlighting the isolation that can exist even within a group.

The second stage, "Define," delves into the external pressures that inhibit women from discovering their authentic selves. Women often feel trapped by the judgments and biases of others, which obscure their own convictions and identities. In this stage, they grapple with the challenge of reclaiming their narratives while drowning in external definitions of who they should be.

However, hope emerges in the third stage, "Discover." Here, the potential for growth is limitless. Women can break free from societal barriers by rejecting unfair judgments and supporting one another in uncovering their true selves. This process fosters emotional connections and encourages mental and spiritual growth, reinforcing the idea that we are stronger together.

Ultimately, in the fourth stage, "Devine," we celebrate the transformation into empowered individuals who embrace their identities. Together, we cultivate a diverse community that respects and honors our differences. The journey we embark on not only liberates us as individuals but also enhances our collective strength.

Reflecting on my own experiences, I recall being told since childhood to be graceful, generous, and kind. While these values are not inherently flawed, they become problematic when majorly, or even exclusively, imposed on women. We must follow our hearts and embrace the myriad possibilities life offers. Although cultural and social norms can be daunting, the choice of who we are—both individually and as a community—remains ours to make. Through Who to Define, I hope to inspire others to explore their identities and celebrate the power of togetherness.