Fine Art nominee

This photo series explores the metaphor of "wearing masks" and the struggle to adapt to various social roles. Using familiar kitchen items the series plays with the idea of identity, how we present ourselves to others, and how we are perceived—often in ways that feel unnatural or uncomfortable.
The title, "My Cup of Tea," is an ironic play on the common phrase "It's not my cup of tea," which is typically used to describe something that doesn’t suit one’s taste or preferences. In contrast, the series title suggests an attempt to define what is one’s cup of tea. For someone who is more reserved or introverted, fitting into social roles can feel like a constant effort to find comfort in things that don’t quite fit. The series reflects this ongoing negotiation of identity: trying to balance between what feels genuine and what is expected by the outside world.

My name is Alena. Originally I’m from Russia, but I have been living in Slovenia for the past six years. Though my background is in economics and psychology, I unexpectedly found my true passion in photography during the pandemic. What began as a casual photography course has since evolved into a deep artistic pursuit. I now study at the Higher School of Photography and continuously seek to refine my skills.
I specialize in portraiture, with a recent focus on self-portraits. My love for working with color allows me to bring vibrancy and emotional depth to my images. With a background in psychology, I aim to reveal the character and inner world of my subjects, creating a nuanced visual narrative. Photography for me is not only a study of form but also an exploration of identity and emotion.