UNVEILING THE ESSENCE
THROUGH MY HIDDEN EGO
Welcome to My Hidden Ego, a transformative project conceived by Monica Silva, where the camera lens becomes a portal to self-discovery and empowerment. At the heart of MHE lies the profound belief in the power of art, particularly therapeutic photography, to illuminate our best selves, fostering a deep journey toward greater self-esteem and inner acceptance.
SOCIAL IDENTITY
AND THE INNER SELF
"My Hidden Ego" is more than just a photography project; it's a vehicle for enhancing self-esteem. The project delves into the transformative power of photography in boosting self-confidence. Being photographed with empathy and understanding not only captures the physical image but also reflects the inner essence of each individual. Through the expert eyes of the photographer, layers of insecurity are stripped away, revealing the intrinsic beauty of every person.
The process of being seen and accepted for who we truly are can be transformative, offering validation, affirmation, and a sense of belonging. A portrait in the hands of an empathetic photographer becomes a catalyst for self-discovery and acceptance. Sharing one's portrait with others can inspire connection and empathy, creating space for genuine human understanding. Ultimately, the portrait becomes a powerful tool for promoting self-love and acceptance, encouraging individuals to embrace their uniqueness and worth. The emergence of self-respect and individuality captured by the lens is revealed in the portrait, becoming a celebration of the dignity and intrinsic value of every human being.
PHOTOGRAPHY SESSIONS
Revealing the Authentic Self
In "Women Thru the Lens" and "Changing Partner Without Changing Partner" sessions, the artist uses makeup and styling to help subjects reveal their inner selves. This method, does not mean the disappearance of the identity recognized by society or oneself but rather opposes the fragmentation of the self, which causes feelings of inadequacy, insufficiency, and loss that increasingly characterize our time. These sessions address issues related to the nature of truth and knowledge and how our perception of reality can be distorted by personal psychological projections and social conventions.
The project unfolds in two dynamics: Social identity is explored in the public performance session "15 Minutes to Be Real," where the individuals are captured as they are, free from artistic interpretations or interventions, capturing the image we present to the external world. We are accustomed to a society that leverages diversity as a divisive element; the project's intent is to offer a different vision: starting from the premise that we are all different, we are united when we accept our own and others' diversity.
Meet Monica Silva: A Visionary
Artist Redefining Resilience
Monica Silva, the visionary artist and creator of MHE, promotes the fusion of therapeutic photography masterclasses with specially curated motivational kits designed to provide valuable psychological support. Our mission transcends conventional boundaries; it’s about nurturing self-esteem, unveiling the complexities of one's personality, embracing individuality, and fortifying psychological resilience through the transformative power of art. At the core of MHE's ethos is the awareness that its impact goes far beyond the individual. It’s a ripple effect, a shared journey where art connects to humanity. Although Monica Silva’s personal history fueled the birth of MHE, its essence lies in enabling others to harness their creative potential and share the collective healing journey. MHE is more than a project; it's a testament to the transformative power of resilience and human connection. It’s a collaborative effort, a testimony to the collective strength of individuals united by a shared vision of healing through art. Join us as we embark on a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and collective healing.
Together, we uncover the hidden depths of our true selves and embrace the beauty of our shared humanity. In the captivating images of Monica Silva, we find an intense journey of resilience and self-discovery. With each shutter click, the artist transcends the boundaries of her past, weaving a mosaic of emotions and experiences that resonate with the human soul of those before her. Monica's artistic journey testifies to the transformative power of photography. Her life has been marked by an abusive and violent childhood, and her camera has become a gateway to liberation and healing. Through the lens, she found solace, creating a sacred space to confront the many souls residing within her. For Monica, photography is more than a skill; it’s a lifeline, a means to survive in a world demanding strength and invincibility. It’s a journey of self-discovery, an exploration of identity in an era dominated by images and illusions. Navigating the complexities of contemporary society, Monica's work serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that culture has the power to redeem and restore. Through her lens, she invites us to embrace vulnerability, confront our deepest demons, and emerge stronger and more resilient than ever. Join Monica Silva on a journey of self-discovery and redemption: a journey where every image tells a story and every soul finds solace in the beauty of art.
OUR GOAL
The MHE Project is conceived as a format that can be implemented anywhere in the world. Our goal is to make the project itinerant, starting from Italy, travelling far and wide, and then continuing our journey through Europe and the rest of the world.
“VALUE YOURSELF! Never look down. Always hold your chin up high. The belief in yourself is the key to measure success in any undertaking”.
Monica Silva