To convey my difficulty remembering important events in my life, I have created a series of eight distorted photographs. They were first collected from family members that thought they depicted memorable events. Because I am beyond just forgetting details, I have a large disconnect with my early life, so I have distorted myself in every photograph using a scanner.
With this work, I wanted to portray how I perceive and contextualize myself in my own life. Childhood memories and past-lived experience play an integral role in current identity. Thus hardly remembering anything creates a rift in the self.
1996
Zurich, Switzerland.
First taste of McDonald’s.
Original photograph submitted by my father.
8x5cm
1997
Alexandria, Egypt.
On a stranger’s car, summer vacation.
Original photograph shared by my uncle (maternal).
8x5cm
1998
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
First sports event at new school.
Original photograph shared by my mother.
8x5cm
2000
London, UK
Last day of school.
Original photograph shared by my sister.
8x5cm
2001
Cairo, Egypt.
8th birthday party.
Original photograph shared by my sister.
8x5cm
2003
Munich, Bavaria.
Spring break.
Original photograph shared by my cousin (maternal).
8x5cm
2003
Cairo, Egypt.
First day of another new school.
Original photograph shared by my mother.
8x5cm
2004
Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt.
Winter break.
Original photograph shared by aunt (paternal).
8x5cm
