I originally thought I would do either Blackbird by the Beatles or 3 birds on my doorstep by Bob Marley, but the song- There was once an ugly duckling kept going on in my head. I knew that the new technique was going to try and use digital imaging . I started with a photo of myself as a rather gawky pre-teen. I posterized it in Gimp- something I have done before- but now I wanted to make layers and merge them. I had my original photo, posterized photo and a seperate posterized that I used a glass fragmentation - and voila merged them. Do not ask how I managed to do this as I pretty much bungled my way through.
I chose Ugly Duckling because I grew up thinking I was ugly- my Mom told me that I was and I was teased all through school. I used the fragmentation because I wanted to show how we don't really see how we truly are. I did realize much later that I am ok, I found that I could teach young children letting them know that they are great- love them from being themselves, and found someone who truly believes that I am beautiful. And looking back at old photos _ I was really pretty cute.
I am not really fond of the piece and will probably revisit this theme and do it a lot better
Labels can be very hurtful, even if they are in just. We all looked a little strange as teens ... it takes a while for all parts to come together. I was called 'string bean'. It didn't help that I was shy as well!
ReplyDeleteNote: I find the words hard to read.
Hint: when you take the photo, focus on the writing when you take the photo and / or just post a larger photo.
ps our work doesn't have to be perfect! I look at these small pieces as a chance to experiment ... some work out better than expected and some don't.
.ps ... they are in just ... should read "they are in jest'
Deletethanks I'll try and add your suggestions tomorrow
DeleteGreat experimentation Sharon and so brave to reveal your feelings.
ReplyDeleteI love the story, and Danny Kaye's song always a favourite.
ReplyDeleteThanks for being so open with us, sharing your journey. I too struggle with my self-image. you are braver than me!
ReplyDeleteWasn't Mr. Roger's wonderful when he sang "I love you just the way you are." I'm sure this was a difficult piece to work on but it conveys a strong message. Interesting photo techniques.
ReplyDelete