Last Thursday I met up with professional photographer, Jason Travis, so he could take a photo of me and the contents of my purse for his photo series, "Persona". I've been a fan of his "Persona" work for a while - so I was super flattered when he contacted me to be a part of it! For those who aren't familiar with Jason or his "Persona" diptychs, here is a blurb from The Atlantan July/Aug 2009 magazine:
When he began taking photographs in November 2007 for his Persona diptych series, Jason Travis set out to catch up with old friends, learn more about new friends, and, most significantly, to capture a portion of their lives in terms of what each individual considered essential enough to carry around with them everyday.
Viewers of the Persona diptychs take a voyeuristic delight in not only glimpsing the items usually tucked away in bags and pockets, but in identifying with strangers by relating to the tokens they carry with them. Alongside the meticulously arranged items that each person carries, Jason situates a portrait in which the subject always seems confident and at home, comfortable in their own skin. In these snapshots, each person appears as Jason sees them, which is always beautiful. Assembling the Persona diptychs has not only allowed Jason to combine his love of photography with his knowledge of the uniqueness and beauty in each of his subjects, but also has allowed him to share this knowledge with others.
-Sam NeSmith
It was interesting to talk to Jason as he organized my purse contents for photos, because you could tell he is intrigued by what people value and seems to inspect people's belongings with a careful eye! While sorting my purse's contents, he asked me if I like to shop online or like etsy... Kinda surprised me that someone could just tell that from the stuff I carry! I actually do almost all my shopping online, on etsy or in other cities.
Anyhow - I had a lot of fun taking photos for a bit with Jason and loved how the diptych turned out! If you haven't already seen his photo series, please go check it out here. And here is my photo:
original photo here
The stuff pictured: red moleskine journal, pink comb, pink coin purse, keys, business card holder filled with little photos from recent events, iPhone, gum, wallet, glow-stick wand (he told me to bring items I sometimes carry or really like - this is my favorite thing to take to parties but isn't in my purse 24/7), ice cream eraser someone gave me recently, strawberry hair bands, camera, pen, lip gloss and lipstick, and a scarf shaped like a bear. My purse is betsey johnson and I attached the stars to it.
When I was getting ready for this, it made me wonder if I carry a lot of stuff or not. Do you guys carry this much stuff, or more/less? What is in your bag?? I'm so curious about others now!
And for fun, this is what I wore to have my photos taken! I was going to draw it for this post, but I'm kinda booked up with freelance so personal drawings will have to wait a bit.
Jason also took a few snaps of my outfit while meeting for the Persona photos:
photo by Jason Travis
It was so windy that day!! It made my skirt feel floaty like a little cloud or something.
photo by Jason Travis
Gray heart cardigan: Betsey Johnson
Heart necklace: Tarina Tarantino
Bow belt: n/a
Star clips in my hair and bag: 6%dokidoki
Swirling Pannier skirt: 6%dokidoki (From Electric Alice!! My new favorite online store)
Tights: Target
Shoes: Saucony
Purse: Betsey Johnson
Strawberry ring: I made it! :)
I took a lot of photos that day, I figured I'd share the rest after the "read more" cut!
