Shrek Among Us
Adrienne Salinger’s iconic photographs of teenagers in their rooms during the 1990s inspired my series Shrek Among Us. In Stalinger’s work, the teens are posed modestly, and their personal spaces become focal points of the images. My series builds on this concept by photographing people wearing Shrek masks while engaging in everyday activities or posing in their living spaces.
The Shrek mask is a unifying element throughout the series, shielding each individual’s face and adding intrigue. Traditional portraiture often focuses on the subject’s features and expressions; obscuring the face draws attention to the surrounding environment.
While inspired by Salinger’s portrayal of individuals in their own spaces, my approach further emphasizes the space as the primary point of interest. The Shrek mask creates a playful yet unsettling contrast, injecting humor and ambiguity into each image.
This series challenges conventional ideas of portraiture and identity, leaving a memorable impression while exploring the complexity of self and our environments.
Spring 2024