“Know thyself”, read the inscription at the entry to the Oracle of Delphi. This adage was to be repeated and explored time and again by generations to come.
In an era dominated by media and bombarded by advertising, in a reality retouched to perfection, do we really know ourselves? Through what prism do we look at our reflection?
What seemed to Socrates as a virtually unattainable goal - getting to genuinely know thyself - may nowadays seem like a lost cause altogether. Society inculcates in us notions of what is ideal, as well as perceptions that distort our self-judgment and amplify self-deprecation. Are we able to filter the noise and see ourselves for what and who we are? And is there something in the “who we are” to be seen at all?
This collection of images does not presume to provide an answer. Rather, it aspires to intensify the question. For the acknowledgement of ignorance may encourage the spectator/participant to refine one’s observation of one’s self, and of all beings.
*These images were shot in the common area of a public restroom. The subjects are unaware that they are being photographed, while observing their own reflection.
