Tessa Laslo

Introspection A Quiet Using alternative process photography, Tessa Laslo constructs self-portraits that depict lethargy, discomfort, and vulnerability.

Caged, 2020 Silver gelatin print from pinhole negative 4 x 5 inches

Quiet Desperation, 2020 Silver gelatin print from pinhole negative 4 x 3.75 inches

Photographer Tessa Laslo is interested in the intimacy created between the subject and the viewer within selfportraiture. A senior BFA Studio Art major at Millikin University with concentrations in drawing, printmaking, and photography, Laslo works with alternative process photography and utilizes the gaze, or lack thereof, in an attempt to engage viewers with the subject—herself. “Overall, my work performs as an investigation of self and an exploration of the emotions and feelings I often encounter when confronted with intimacy, as well as the undesirable sentiments that come with feeling exposed and vulnerable,” Tessa says.

To create the photos featured here, Tessa opted for long-exposure self-portraits using a pinhole camera to capture her facial features and expression with little background imagery. The images are taken in full sun with a proximity that simultaneously allows for closeness and a sense of detachment.

Avoidance, 2020 Silver gelatin print from pinhole negative 4 x 5 inches

Overwhelming Unease, 2020 Silver gelatin print from pinhole negative 4 x 5 inches

Split Consciousness, 2020 Silver gelatin print from pinhole negative 4 x 5 inches