photographic self-portraits

Editha Mesina

Curated by Marisol Díaz in conjunction with Enfoco's Touring Gallery series

At CUCHIFRITOS art gallery/project space.

March 19 - April 30, 2005

Opening reception: Saturday March 19, 4-6pm
Open daily thereafter, Monday through Saturday 12:00 noon to 5:30pm. Closed Sundays

Mesina's work is a creative exploration of portraiture, photographing her reflection in old mirrors, as well as her young children - as an extension of her self. She states, "As a woman and a Filipino-American, my fascination with self-portraiture comes from the empowering potential of this genre. The process of fashioning my own image allows me to deal with issues regarding identity. As photographer I define my subject. As subject, I direct my gaze toward an understanding of the possibilities of the self and the image."

Mesina's interest in mirrors go beyond her desire to document her reflection. There is a transformation that occurs in these mirrors, which are imperfect, full of stains and flaws, some have lost their silver. Some of these self-portraits may resemble 17th century Dutch paintings, in others she is transformed into a detail from a Velasquez painting. Others may recall 19th century images from glass negatives or more recent manipulated digital images. Not only is there visual reference to the image-making past, but an unspoken desire to be included in art history's rich past.

About her recent work, she states, "I have begun to include my young children extending the idea of the self-portrait. I use photography not only as a tool to sharpen my memory for these quickly passing moments but also to create a space for invention. That the photograph can function as a window into these various found worlds allows me to continue in my reverie."

The self portrait photographs by Editha Mesina, on view at Cuchifritos, art gallery/project space are part of En FocoÕs Touring Gallery series. All Enfoco Touring Gallery events are free and open to the public, and are funded in part by the NY State Council on the Arts, the NY City Department of Cultural Affairs, Lowepro, and En Foco members and friends. Please visit www.enfoco.org for updates.

This exhibit was made possible by generous contributions from The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, LMCC's Fund For Creative Communities/NYSCA, The New York City Economic Development Corporation, The Elizabeth Firestone Graham Foundation, and Artists Alliance incorporated and its volunteers and members.