This is my first self-portrait. It took me a few hours to complete, and I feel like it’s a good start.

I’ve realised that I don’t really see myself that often. I’m too busy observing other people or scrolling through social media, which can distort my perception of what I should or need to look like.

I found a strange sense of power in observing and judging others, rather than truly seeing and perceiving my own face. I feel somewhat detached from myself—from my own image. So, this portrait is a kind of introduction.

Painting deep dark skin is something that I am teaching myself how to build on colour and add dimension and softness where there is not. I am not looking for realism in my work I am nurturing simple expression.