My journey to Canada in late 2019 marked the beginning of a profound transformation. Immigrating meant starting anew, a process complicated further by the onset of the pandemic shortly after my arrival. This convergence of challenges deepened my experience of isolation, intertwining the solitude of a new immigrant with the global retreat into quarantine. In seeking to navigate this landscape, I turned to therapy at my university, a decision that set me on a path of introspection and healing.
Months of therapy revealed a pressing need to cultivate self-worth, leading me to revisit my long-standing passion for photography. A Polaroid camera, purchased earlier but reserved for moments deemed special, became my tool for exploration and expression. The realization that self-love was crucial prompted me to capture my essence through a series of self-portraits—the first in over two decades of my engagement with photography.
My quest for self-care and connection evolved into a journey through the natural world. I found solace and companionship among trees and lakes, elements that helped me combat feelings of isolation and homesickness. This relationship with my surroundings became a means of grounding myself, fostering a sense of belonging in this new space. Through my art, I not only navigate my own healing but also invite viewers to reflect on their paths to self-discovery and connection with the environment