“Deconstructed” is a photographic project consisting of self-portraits created using the technique of live collage. The images were first captured digitally, then printed on plain paper and physically transformed by hand in the spirit of Cubism. This approach allows me to look at myself — both literally and metaphorically — from multiple angles, both outside and within.

The project began as an exploration of how I perceive my own appearance. It was born out of intrusive thoughts: a nose that’s too big, lips that aren’t quite right, imperfect skin — subjective judgments shaped by societal standards and the flood of idealized images we encounter every day on social media. These internal dialogues were often harsh and painful, reflecting a deep tension between who I am and who I feel I’m expected to be.

But as I created these portraits, a powerful realization emerged: I don’t want to change anything. All of my “imperfect” features are me — a whole, living, breathing person who feels, loves, creates, and experiences life. And in that lies my reality, my truth. This project became not an act of correction, but an act of self-acceptance, and at times, a liberating laugh at the absurdity of trying to conform to someone else’s idea of perfection.

Still, the photographs carry the emotional tension and inner conflict that accompanied me in moments of self-criticism. They remain as a visual trace of those states — honest, powerful, and nonlinear.

“Deconstructed” is a self-portrait in motion — a story about how we can meet ourselves anew: with love, honesty, and a touch of irony.