ARTIST STATEMENT
These works were created with a single word in mind: empowerment. Each image is intimate, but are also disjointed enough to obscure the identity of the figures in them. Only specific details of the figure are shown, chosen for their own reason, along with the titles given to them. Knowing the truth of the whole person behind each image and having the choice as to how much is revealed and how much isn’t has a sense of empowerment. Music plays a part in the work as well, with the titles containing specific lyrics in songs that hold a similar message as the imagery itself does to me. There is a lot of self-reflection within the work, and a confrontation with the viewer about how they are seeing and perceiving the work and the message held within it.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Novalí Centellas is a photographer and printmaker in Grand Rapids, MI, and is currently a senior at Kendall College of Art & Design. Originally from Chicago, IL, she started her photography journey six years ago as a sophomore in high school, and has been expanding her knowledge and skills ever since. She got a summa cum laude medal in high school, and has gotten on the President’s List three times and the Dean’s List once during her college career. She has also previously had her work in three exhibitions, at Saint Mary’s College, John Adams High School, and Alluvium Gallery.
© Novali Centellas