Reflection of Myself

Katherine Mo’s Reflection of Myself, is a series of images that displays the dichotomy between two figures, one feminine in nature, the other masculine. The contrast between the two is a reference to Mo’s self-discovery. 

The figures are discerned by their appearances, poses, and colored lighting, all displayed as a reflection upon several mirrors. To convey the femininity of the subject, clothing played a major role in displaying the sexual and flamboyant nature. The poses were chosen to be suggestive and display a level of vulnerability. The general color used in the lighting were pink, one of the colors most commonly attributed to femininity. Whereas the masculine figure is displayed repressed emotions, save the spouts of anger in several shots. With poses that highlight the restrained and aggressive nature of the subject. The colors are mixed to evoke nausea, a remark on toxic masculinity. 

For many individuals in the LGBTQ+ community, self-discovery plays a substantial role in their identity, especially for those in the Transgender community. Even more so in areas where the exploration of an individual’s identity is suppressed, where it can only be displayed in front of a mirror by themselves. Commonly in constrictive communities this form of self expression is seen as taboo and highly discouraged. This environmental upbringing can cause an individual to experience disgust and even anger about their difference from the status quo. Creating these repressed emotions to eventually bubble up and finally explode.