Darkroom is a photography project that explores the intricate relationship between the human body and self-perception. Its purpose is to challenge societal beauty standards and encourage individuals to rediscover and embrace their physical selves beyond external influences. In a world where media, films, and celebrities dictate idealized body shapes, many struggle with self-acceptance, often leading to a detachment from their own bodies. This disconnect can arise from various factors, including psychological and physiological challenges, past experiences, societal pressures, and internalized expectations, which may contribute to issues such as body dysmorphia.
The project invites participants to engage with their bodies from a new perspective, using photography as a medium for self-exploration. By stepping into the “darkroom,” individuals confront their perceived flaws and fears, allowing them to view these aspects in a different light. The process mirrors photographic development: as participants emerge from the darkness, their images become clearer, reflecting their true form and identity. The goal is to illuminate the diverse forms of beauty that exist, creating a space for individuals to explore their origins, identity, and physicality beyond the constraints imposed by societal norms.