Authors: Meghana G, Dr Vishweshwari Tiwari Faculty
Abstract: This paper investigates how contemporary artists employ self-portraiture as a practice-based method to explore identity, consciousness, memory, and psychological transformation. Moving beyond traditional portraiture, the selected case studies demonstrate how time-based artistic practices—including photography, performance, video, and mixed media—redefine portraiture as an evolving process rather than a static representation. Through the critical examination of the works of Frida Kahlo, Cindy Sherman, Marina Abramović, Amrita Sher-Gil, and Anju Dodiya, the paper explores how artistic practice functions as a mode of self-inquiry and knowledge production. Employing qualitative visual analysis and practice-based research methodology, the study demonstrates that self-portraiture is a dynamic process shaped by reflection, memory, and lived experience. The findings contribute to contemporary scholarship on portraiture by positioning artistic practice as a means of investigating consciousness and identity.
DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21279754
