She Glows

Bella R.

Digital Photography

• Artist Statement

  This digital self-portrait explores the contrast between how I define myself and how others label me. On my left side I wrote the word "fabulous", the word I always use to describe myself, with long, sparkly pink nails to incorporate my passion for nail art with my over-the-top, frilly aura. On my right I wrote real insults I've received, which seem to disappear into the background of the image, because to me, the hate is simply insignificant. I photographed this piece at night while my mom helped swing a light around me to create that 'glowing' effect illuminating me. I used Photoshop to collage an image of my cat and neon floral embellishments to build a magical, enchanted garden feel. This work celebrates individuality, self-expression, and body positivity to insist that my word, "fabulous", depicts me, not hate.

• Creative Statement

  Creativity means expressing myself through multimedia fashion and art. I use self-expression to highlight my creativity through elaborate outfits, makeup, and jewelry. I also do nails, an art-form I've grown to love and practiced for many years. I capture nature, its beauty, and the beauty of my art through photography.