Growing through Self-Portraits

Abstract

Self-portraits have long been a profound means for artists to explore and express their identities, emotions, and personal narratives. The following artists I am going to write about in this thesis will be Frida Kahlo, Kerry James Marshall and Sofonisba Anguissola. These three artists have approached self portraits differently and my aim is to examine how Kahlo, Marshall and Anguissola have respectively utilized self-portraiture to convey their personal experiences and evolving identities, serving as an inspiration to me. Frida Kahlo is one that stands out because of her distinct approach and the depth of her self-exploration in her works throughout her life. I will also present my own work, a series of self-portraits, and get into what led to the forming of those works. In the following chapters I will introduce each artist and write a brief summary of their life. I have chosen four self-portraits, two by Kahlo and one by Marshall and Anguissola which I will be examining, not so much comparing but analyzing how one can portray the self in different ways. Focusing on symbolism, change and evolution, I hope to bring to light how the self is an ever changing concept.