Self Portrait 1

Iwo Zaniewski’s “Self-Portrait,” made with pastel, is an exploration of artistic identity and the creative process. It also captures the material conditions of art-making. The image presents Zaniewski from behind, actively painting at an easel. This visual code emphasizes the artist's engagement with their craft. The setting, filled with plants, art supplies, and a view to the outside, suggests a space of both creative isolation and connection to the world. Without a date, it is hard to know exactly when and where this was made. But we can assume it was made in Poland, where the artist still resides. The artwork then prompts questions about artistic production in Poland. As art historians, we use primary sources like artist statements, exhibition reviews, and cultural histories to understand art’s meaning. Zaniewski’s self-portrait reflects how the meaning of art is contingent on social context, inviting us to consider how artists represent themselves and their work.