Alterity 2002

Geta Bratescu made this photograph, called Alterity, at an unknown date, using photography. It's a black and white image and it feels like a study in contrasts. The textures jump out at me, especially the smooth, almost velvety background versus the rough, grainy quality of the figure. Her dark clothes and hat create a void, a stark contrast to her hands and face. It's like she's emerging from the shadows, becoming visible through the light catching those key parts of her body. Look closely at the way the light falls on her face. It's subtle, but it shapes her features, giving her a sense of depth. I'm reminded of artists like Hannah Hoch, who used collage to explore identity and representation. Ultimately, the power of this image lies in its ambiguity. It's a quiet, contemplative piece that invites us to consider the relationship between self and other.