In this series of digitally photographed portraits of my mom, I want to explore the topic of selfperception and body image. For an individual, wearing makeup can make them feel empowered, knowing it can enhance their beauty. However, understanding the time and effort it takes to put on makeup in order to feel presentable to the public can feel exhausting. Especially for a middle-aged woman, bearing the burden of aging gracefully can be stressful and impact her attitude toward body image. As a result, I want to offer a glimpse into my mom’s personal experience and how she deals with aging and hope to invite other women to discuss and relate to the topic from their own perspective.

At the center of the series is a large lenticular wall print that presents two final stages of my mother’s process of removing and applying makeup. Positioned to face one another as a diptych, these images reveal the duality of an unfiltered self and a version prepared for the outside world. Through this project, I invite the viewers to reflect on one’s personal perception of beauty in our society.