Beyond The Light

This self-portrait delves deeply into Edward's most honest and unfiltered self, dramatizing the composition to heighten its intensity. His body is deliberately positioned toward the viewer, his head tilting as his hand reaches into the light, casting a stark shadow across his face. Through thick, expressive layers of paint, detailed skin creases, and strong contrasts of light, Edward pushes the materiality of his face and hand to the forefront, emphasizing both presence and fragility.

Edward writes: “I have noticed that different versions of myself emerge, especially in moments of vulnerability. It’s something I both cherish and wrestle with. I am drawn to the depth and complexity it reveals, yet at times, it leaves me feeling uncertain about my identity. Capturing my most truthful self, while simultaneously exposing myself to critique, is a double-edged sword—one that balances between authenticity and the weight of perception.”