MISA Photo Book

2023-2024

This body of work began as a self-portrait project and later evolved into a book through the inclusion of childhood photographs. It reflects my experiences with speech therapy and the complex emotions surrounding it, drawing from historical portrayals of difference to explore how these narratives can influence self-image and contribute to internalized shame, particularly in relation to difficult and deeply personal experiences that are rarely acknowledged despite the emphasis on positive outcomes.

MISA is a title that holds significant meaning rooted in my childhood. As I worked on this project, the title became an act of acceptance, of my experiences and their lasting impact. What began as an exploration of my present self expanded as I revisited my past, bringing together self-portraits and childhood images to trace how these experiences shaped me over time. The effects extended far beyond academics, influencing how I formed friendships, how I related to my family, and how I perceived myself. At times, I internalized these feelings into a sense of otherness, shaped by the belief that needing help to speak made me unworthy of love or understanding.

This body of work is named after a childhood moniker, honoring both the little girl who endured profound self-hate before learning to accept herself and the ongoing process of reconciliation between past and present. Through a combination of self-portraits and archival childhood photographs, MISA sparks a conversation about the experience of feeling silenced while receiving help. The work explores a journey toward self-acceptance and self-love, regardless of the challenges faced. Through MISA, I aim to invite reflection, conversation, and empathy.