In this series of intaglio prints entitled Faces of addiction, I use a single copper plate to encode the journey of an addict, starting before the illness and ending after rehabilitation. Faces of… is a common trope that uses mugshots of individuals: a first mugshot, showing the person in a relative sober state (i.e. before addiction), is juxtaposed with a second mugshot showing the addict in a state of physical decay (i.e. while suffering from addiction). While the intended purpose might be dissuasion, which is not a given, such representations decontextualize the individuals from their condition, dehumanizing them in the process. Instead of inspiring empathy and compassion, these stereotypical images incite pity, sometimes even contempt or mockery.

By using a single plate, I try to illustrate how damage can be repaired, but scars remain. Remnants of the very first image linger on the last print, like a halo of a former self.

Plate size: 6" x 6" (15 cm x 15 cm)
Paper size: 8" x 10" (20 cm x 25 cm)
Printed on BFK Rives paper

Created in April 2021