In this series I investigate the construct of the persona as a tool that both reveal and hide. Using my own body as the site for constructing strong distinct personas.
Through costume, makeup and a few props, I assign specific behavioural, emotional, and psychological traits to these characters. I wish to push them to their most extreme edge while maintaining some form of believability.
Though I am the subject, these are not self-portraits; they are studies of the theatricality of the mask. By placing these figures against a stark, back backdrop and employing a Rembrandt-inspired lighting, I strip away environmental context and force the persona to emerge and stand on its own. This high-contrast light serves to sculpt the character, making the persona stand out as a singular, undeniable reality.
I am fascinated by the interplay between the private self and these strong public facades – exploring the persona as both a claim of space and a defensive shield. Where does the act end and the person begin. My process asks: at what point does a persona become so potent that it begins to colonise the person beneath? Through this series, I document the moment the performative starts to feel reel, investigating if a public mask can grow powerful enough to fundamentally alter the private soul it was originally designed to protect.
Personas with personality
Studio portraits of various strong Personas, 2020 – ongoing
The Common Thread (Den røde tråd er ikke rød)
Three portraits of the same woman, connected with embroidery. 2026
10x15cm prints, sewn together with thin thread. Top photo is mounted to 1,5cm black MDF piece.
Me, Myself or I
Performance, shown at Trondheim Open (Åbne Atalierer), at Trondheim Academy of Fine Art
You and Me
Small experiments with the twin I always wanted.
30x30cm prints
Face to Face
30x40cm prints
