2nd place
silver star award
Angelika Kollin
south africa
title
(untitled)
By taking the portraits of "others," I inadvertently constructed a sanctuary within these photographs—a place where I could observe and scrutinize from a comfortable distance. It was an endeavor that led to profound self-discovery and aided me in untangling many of the old knots and ties that had bound me. Creating portraits this way is an organic and unrestricted process, but make no mistake; it demands your unwavering presence with every fiber of your being.
This autobiographical project delves into the intricate and profound bond between a mother and child. It probes how our relationships with our mothers sculpt us as adults, challenging us to embrace our mothers for who they authentically are rather than who we may wish them to be. "You Are My Mother" beckons the audience to embark on a journey of introspection and meditation, delving into the wellspring of emotional intimacy between these pivotal figures. It serves as a tender and intimate contemplation of the profound influence of motherhood in our lives, prompting us to reflect on our personal experiences and the role our mothers have played in shaping the individuals we've become.
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entry description
My ongoing project, "You Are My Mother," began intuitively without a structured plan or preconceived idea. It was only after photographing a succession of women with their children, much to my astonishment and perhaps trepidation, that I became acutely aware of the pressing need to confront my deepest and most painful wound – my own relationship with my mother. It was an undeniable realization, an epiphany that left no room for evasion. When you know, you know. And so, I plunged headfirst into this exploration, firmly trusting that, much like my previous work, it would eventually guide me to the answers I sought. The unfolding of this work was a revelation in itself.By taking the portraits of "others," I inadvertently constructed a sanctuary within these photographs—a place where I could observe and scrutinize from a comfortable distance. It was an endeavor that led to profound self-discovery and aided me in untangling many of the old knots and ties that had bound me. Creating portraits this way is an organic and unrestricted process, but make no mistake; it demands your unwavering presence with every fiber of your being.
This autobiographical project delves into the intricate and profound bond between a mother and child. It probes how our relationships with our mothers sculpt us as adults, challenging us to embrace our mothers for who they authentically are rather than who we may wish them to be. "You Are My Mother" beckons the audience to embark on a journey of introspection and meditation, delving into the wellspring of emotional intimacy between these pivotal figures. It serves as a tender and intimate contemplation of the profound influence of motherhood in our lives, prompting us to reflect on our personal experiences and the role our mothers have played in shaping the individuals we've become.
about the photographer
Angelika Kollin is Estonian artist currently residing in Cape Town, South Africa. Through the photographic medium she explores the world of human intimacy, in particular the relationship between a parent and a child. She guides the viewer back to basics, world of emotions unadorned by circumstances and geographical locations.back to gallery