Erika Lamothe Modeling & Self Portraits

Modeling & Self Portraits

This is my modeling portfolio with images taken by James Arzente and Daniel Parrott. My goals with being the model in front of the lens is to break down stereotypes, express myself, and explore. I want to be a voice and advocate that posing and modeling are also art forms. It takes a lot of time, energy, planning, and dedication to be one and putting myself in the shoes of the model makes it easier for me to direct and bring people's vision to life as a photographer.

With Myself

This series is comprised of self portraits from a time in my life that was at my lowest point. I find it important to utilize art and self expression to bring up difficult and challenging events in life. It is a global experience to undergo a broken heart, a lost job, grief, trauma, and pain beyond comprehension. Being human is complex; layered. We are fortunate to have this life and unfortunate for the struggles we face all while simultaneously being part of the future and making history all at once. I think that if we don't share these things, we drown in our own sorrows and don't embrace positivity when it comes around.

Never Asking For it

This is part of a self-portrait feminist project titled "Reconquest". It is a 2-part (with plans to expand) Tezos NFT project I organized with my co-creator Maral. This collection's theme is about expressing and/or fighting internal conflict against stereotypes, pressures, and abuse of power inflicted upon women and femme by the toxic male patriarchal society.

See the collections here (mature content):

Reconquest I

Reconquest II

"What were you wearing?"

As if my clothes said "touch me"

"You're wearing that!?"

Because my choice of clothing would compel a man's behavior.

Because my outfit makes it my fault, right? Not his.

For every cat call, for every uncomfortable interaction, for every touch, for every step further into trauma...

My clothes are why. It's me. It's her.

It's every feminine presenting person.

It's us.

It's our fault we were treated like garbage. Our clothes.

But the reality is violation can happen fully clothed, in hoodies, in sweatpants, in jeans, and t-shirts.

It can happen no matter what is draped over our bodies.

And, most importantly, we are NOT at fault.

We are worthy of respect.

We demand to be asked for consent.

We are tired of victim blaming and victim shaming.

Instead of telling us what the fuck we should and shouldn't wear, how about you learn to respect us instead?

How about you teach your son that people have boundaries?

How about you always ask to touch someone?

How about you stop making disgusting assumptions based on appearance?

How about you step in when you see your friend forcing themselves onto a feminine person?

We're never asking for it.

We will not allow ourselves to be treated like trash.

Fine Art Self Portraits

Fine art is one of my favorite forms of photography and to me it is a serious approach to portraits that contains simple application with a complex message.