Through this project, 50 young people aged between 15 and 26, in vulnerable situations, were introduced to the “Self portrait experience (SPEX)” method, developed by the artist Cristina Nuñez. Through a series of workshops, the artist offers a practical tool for exploring the influence of digital culture on people’s identity. In contrast to the selfie, which tends to reflect a smoothed-out image of the individual, she is looking at the way in which we – and in this case young people in particular – can use technological tools such as cameras, smartphones and social networks to express our emotions and broaden our perception of ourselves and others without filters. The benefits for young people have been many: empowerment, increased self-esteem, creativity, self-knowledge and emotional management. A selection of the photographic material resulting from the workshops was presented in an exhibition at the University of Luxembourg, a permanent online exhibition and a publication.
“Seeing everyone’s photos hanging there in physical form really touched me and also made me think about the difference between seeing things online and on a screen and seeing them in physical form. It had a really big impact on me. This project has really given me the courage to adapt to my emotions and those of others without being afraid of them”. (participant)
