I made this face cast during a period of lockdown and therefore a few years back when I had fewer lines to my face. But like a photograph it preserves a previous temporal reality in its faithful reproduction

Thinking that I should make some more work with it I was rather stumped at first by the historical connotations of these casts as death masks, I thought that I should at least show that I am alive, and further find some empathy for the frozen appearance of the cast.

Having the lump of plaster in my hands though takes me into a different place. I am prompted to contemplate questions surrounding identity, representation, and the nature of reality.
One, the flesh of my face is not just a physical object; it embodies my identity and self-perception. Thus, the cast, while resembling my face, is a separate entity, leading me to ponder the relationship between physical appearance and personal identity. Is the cast truly representative of me, or is it merely a copy?
Two, this comparison raises questions about representation and authenticity. I question whether the cast authentically captures the essence of my face or merely presents a superficial likeness. This transfers into broader philosophical inquiries about representation in various aspects of life.
For three, this comparison highlights the subjective nature of reality and perception. While the cast may visually resemble my face, it lacks the living essence that defines my existence, prompting me to reflect on the reliability of perception and the uncertainty of knowing objective truth.
To round out, I contemplate the essence of my identity. What makes my face uniquely mine? Is it solely physical features, or is there a deeper essence that defines my identity? These reflections point further into philosophical inquiries about essentialism and the nature of being.