Menthol

To look but not to see – Encapsulates the lived experiences of body dysmorphia, a condition characterised by a distorted perception of one’s physical appearance. Rooted in societal pressures and unrealistic beauty standards, this phenomenon fosters a disconnection between the external gaze and internal self-perception. The relentless pursuit of an idealised image, often defined by unattainable weight and specific characteristic goals, fuels a perpetual cycle of dissatisfaction and self-critique. In this narrative, the act of ≠“looking≠“ extends beyond mere observation; it symbolises the pervasive influence of cultural norms and personal expectations that shape how individuals perceive themselves. Within the context of body dysmorphia, the concept of “seeing” becomes a complex interplay between reality and illusion. Despite external validation or reassurance, individuals may struggle to reconcile their physical reality with the distorted image conjured by their minds. This dissonance perpetuates feelings of inadequacy and the cycle of striving for an elusive standard of beauty. The aspiration for a specific display becomes a relentless pursuit, overshadowing one’s sense of self-worth and perpetuating harmful behaviours aimed at achieving an unattainable ideal. However, the narrative of “To Look But Not to See” also embodies resilience and the potential for transformation. By acknowledging the societal constructs that underpin unrealistic beauty standards and embracing diverse representations of beauty, individuals can reclaim agency over their self-image. Ultimately, the journey towards healing from body dysmorphia entails not only learning to see oneself more clearly but also dismantling the pervasive influences that perpetuate harmful notions of beauty and self-worth.

Woman, not a witch – Throughout history, women in positions of power have been subjected to relentless scrutiny and vilification, often branded as witches or demonic figures. These unjust accusations were fuelled by deep-seated anxieties surrounding female autonomy and authority. By depicting the human aspect of these women, “Woman, Not a Witch” challenges the prevailing narratives that have perpetuated their demonisation, inviting viewers to empathise with their struggles and recognise the injustices they endured. The portraiture serves as a stark reminder of the horror committed against women deemed too powerful or too independent. The project seeks to confront the legacy of misogyny and persecution that continues to shape our understanding of women’s roles in society.

Red lip – Photographic collection, capturing the nuanced interplay of intrusive thoughts and the delicate dance of crossing societal boundaries in self-display. Imagery capturing the application of red lipstick offers a visual narrative of the complexities of the human psyche, where inner turmoil and external expectations collide. Each frame becomes a deeper window into the private world of the mind. What does it mean to navigate the complexities of the human condition?

Vējiem Līdzi – A photography collection featured in Menthol No.3, stands as an unfeigned tribute to the horizons of both familiar landscapes and uncharted territories. It captures the essence of a life lived on the opposite side of the horizon’s end, where the past fades into the distant landscape, and the present heralds the beginning of a new journey. The collection embodies the themes of transformation and growth, inviting one to embark on self-discovery and renewal. This is a conduit for nature’s profound power to capture the human spirit and evoke a sense of wonder and joy in the simple pleasures of life. From the gentle sway of grass in the wind to the golden hues of a sunset, this work invites viewers to immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural world and find solace in the ephemeral moments that make life meaningful.