Iqra Ahmed
Ba Hons Photography, UAL
About
Mixed Media Photography
Reverie
Hireath
Past Projects
P.O.V
Drown Me
Veiled
Commission
Modest Fashion
CV
Veiled
(2021)
'Veiled' is more than just a photography project; it is a personal inquiry inspired by my own experiences and emotions around mental health. Inspired by my own problems with depression and anxiety, this project aims to shed light on the enormous impact these disorders have on the human psyche.
At the heart of "Veiled" lies the symbolic representation of internal struggles through external imagery. The deliberate concealment of subjects' faces with objects like umbrellas or paper bags is a deliberate metaphor for the profound sense of isolation and disconnection that often accompanies mental health disorders. By veiling the face, I seek to convey the feeling of being trapped within one's own mind, where the true self becomes obscured and unrecognizable.
In addition to obscuring the face, "Veiled" employs techniques such as intentional blurring and distortion to capture the disorienting and surreal nature of mental illness. These visual distortions stem directly from my own experiences of feeling disconnected from reality, where the world around me seemed hazy and uncertain. Through these visual manipulations, I aim to evoke the internal chaos and confusion that characterize the experience of living with mental illness.
Gloomy and foggy environments serve as the haunting backdrop for each image, reflecting the internal landscape of despair. These atmospheric conditions mirror the darkness and uncertainty that pervade the psyche of individuals grappling with depression and anxiety.
Ultimately, "Veiled" is a journey of self-discovery and healing. By confronting my own struggles with mental illness through visual storytelling, I hope to connect with others who may be experiencing similar challenges. Through exhibitions, publications, and online platforms, I aim to spark meaningful conversations and promote awareness about these often misunderstood and stigmatized issues. "Veiled" stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity, offering a beacon of hope for renewal and acceptance.