Calling Card

The labels with which we identify ourselves provide clues as to how we see ourselves, as well as how we wish to be seen by others. The variety of labels we each use only hint at the array of selves that make up our single identity. The construction of identity is complex and continually evolving, with genetics, environment, and self-will all playing a part.

This work investigates how the construction of a queer identity could influence other facets of a person’s identity. This queer identity could influence a person’s sense of self, as well as influencing how a person could be perceived by others.

I invited twelve people to be interviewed, and videotaped their responses. At the same time, I gave each person a disposable camera, and asked them to photograph the objects, scenes, ideas and people they felt most influenced their sense of self; their identity.

The interviews were edited and projected onto one wall of the exhibition space. The sitters’ photographic responses were also edited onto a video, along with the audio from a second interview, and were projected onto another wall in the exhibition space. The two projected digital videos play with the ideas of point of view, the construction of identity, and the dichotomies of self and other, and queer and straight.

Exhibition
2003, New Q, Midsumma Arts Festival, Counihan Gallery, Melbourne

Award
Perpetual Private Clients’ People’s Choice Award, New Q Exhibition, Counihan Gallery, Midsumma Arts Festival, Melbourne.

Publication
Summa Lovin’, Midsumma, 2004

2003

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Video stills Calling Card exhibition
Video stills

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