The Emerging Self
The Emerging Self - adonis, celestial echoes
These images deal with the notion of developing adulthood within our society today. This volatile stage of life has long been recognised as a critical time of conflict and turmoil. As they move from childhood to adolescence and from adolescence to adulthood, both boys and girls have to redefine themselves. The way they interact with the world around them in a purely physical sense, as well as in a social and psychological one, has been of continuing interest to me.
The notion of 'aping adults' is one area studied. It is almost as if certain children bear the imprint of their adulthood about them. Fashion, body image and the first stirrings of narcissism are explored, reflecting the status quo as set out in popular culture and in the media.
Following on from this, body language itself is observed, where the developing characteristics of male and female behaviour are looked at. Some of the subjects' interaction with the camera reflects the physical and emotional awkwardness or tension that can be experienced in this period of growth.
Lastly the images are involved with the emotions and the psyche. The inner, private world of thoughts, dreams and fantasies are explored, as well as a sense of vulnerability and alienation that can be so prevalent at this time.
In addition, my concern has been with the way male/female differences and similarities manifest themselves in all these areas. With the subjects being very much children of our time, my use of colour has been a conscious attempt to accentuate a feeling of the here and now.
About Michelle Sank
Michelle Sank is a photographer whose work has been widely exhibited and published internationally. Her work focuses on social documentary and portraiture, with a particular interest in youth culture and identity.
Her work has been exhibited at prestigious venues including the National Portrait Gallery in London, Photoespana in Madrid, and the Houston Center for Photography. She has received numerous awards including the South West Visual Arts Award (2002/2004) and was shortlisted for the European Award for Women Photographers (2004).
Her photographs are held in collections including the Allan Servais Collection in Brussels, and she is represented by The Print Room at The Photographers Gallery, London.