The Fluidity of Identity.
— An Exploration of Evolving Selves
The Fluidity of Identity is an artistic exploration of the evolving, multi-dimensional aspects of who we are. Through experimental portraiture and abstract techniques, this project investigates the layers of identity – cultural, gender, and personal – that shape us and constantly shift over time. In today’s world, identity can be a blend of tradition and transformation, self-expression and introspection. This project seeks to visualize that complexity, inviting viewers to consider how we define ourselves and how those definitions change.
Click the imabe above to watch the introduction video
Project Concept.
— Identity is rarely fixed
It breathes, changes shape, grows with us.
It’s not a single idea, but a shifting collection of experiences, memories, beliefs, and relationships. The Fluidity of Identity explores this ongoing process through conceptual portraiture, capturing people in layered, introspective images that mirror the multifaceted nature of selfhood. Each portrait becomes a visual expression of the contradictions, fragments, and quiet revolutions that live within us.
The series doesn’t aim to define identity, but to observe it as a living thing, a collage of past and present selves. Using abstraction, distortion, and collaboration, the project reveals the richness of becoming, opening a space for both the viewer and the subject to reflect on who we are beneath the surface.
Self Exploration
A conceptual video clip exploring the passage of time and the transient nature of emotions and feelings, carried like the wind.
Project Goals.
— Celebrate Diversity and Self-Expression
Each portrait is rooted in dialogue. Through collaboration with individuals from many walks of life, the work becomes a celebration of real, raw identity. Every subject brings their own energy and expression, allowing the images to become vessels for individual truth, shared vulnerability, and collective celebration of what it means to be human.
Project
— Challenge Traditional Perceptions of Identity
The Fluidity of Identity questions the idea that identity can be pinned down or named in a word. It offers portraits where multiple expressions and symbols appear at once – sometimes layered, sometimes interrupted – allowing for contradiction, ambiguity, and transformation.
Each image invites viewers to step beyond categories and into the layered spectrum of who we are.
— Create an Immersive Experience of Identity
The project will evolve into a gallery experience that welcomes viewers into the heart of this theme: fluidity. With reflective surfaces, fragmented visuals, and subtle motion, the space will invite personal introspection. Viewers are encouraged not only to look but to feel, engaging with the portraits as mirrors of their own evolving identity.
Goals.
Visual Inspiration.
— Intersections within Identity
No one is one thing. Our identities form in overlapping places, between who we were and who we’re becoming. Each image in this project captures those intersections. Through reflection, layering, or juxtaposition, the portraits express the invisible moments when memory, culture, desire, and change collide inside us.
— Cultural and Personal Symbols
The portraits incorporate symbols drawn from each subject’s life, objects, patterns, clothing, rituals, or textures that hold meaning. These elements, chosen through conversation, bring deeper context and narrative. They reveal personal histories that don’t always speak loudly but run deep. In doing so, the work invites the viewer to look closer, to see more than just the face.
Visual Inspiration.
— Fluidity – A Constant Evolution
Identity doesn’t hold still. It’s always in motion. The portraits will reflect this movement, visually expressing change, ambiguity, and the unfolding self. Whether through blurred lines, ghosted reflections, or shifting light, the imagery will carry a sense of motion, a visual echo of the inner transformations we all experience.
— Mirrors, Reflections, and Distortion
How we see ourselves is rarely how we are seen. Using mirrors, distortion, and fragmented frames, the portraits will hold space for both the internal and external gaze. This visual language expresses the tension between how we feel inside and what the world reflects back. It embraces the complexity of self-perception, unpolished, uncertain, and deeply human.
Call for Collaboration
— Be Part of The Fluidity of Identity
I’m looking for people who want to explore the deeper layers of their identity through visual storytelling. This project is a space for reflection, experimentation, and personal expression. Your story – your contradictions, questions, and truths – is welcome here.
No need to be polished. Just come as you are.
— Who I’m Looking For
I’m seeking individuals who are:
- Open and Reflective: Willing to engage in thoughtful conversations about identity and self-expression.
- Diverse: From all walks of life, backgrounds, and experiences, your unique story matters.
- Collaborative: Excited to be part of a creative and experimental process.
- Available: Able to commit to scheduled sessions between April and July 2025.
No prior experience as a model is required. This is about authenticity, not perfection.
— What to Expect as a Participant
As a subject, you’ll collaborate closely in a safe and supportive space to bring forward aspects of your identity that are meaningful to you. We’ll explore experimental techniques to create a portrait that reflects the fluidity and depth of your personal journey. Final images will be part of a gallery exhibition, shared both in physical form and online. Read more in the FAQ section.
If you’d like to explore your own identity in an artistic, collaborative setting, I’d love to have you join me.
About the
Artist.
Meet Matei – Photographer and Conceptual Artist.
Based in London, Matei is a portrait and conceptual photographer with a passion for capturing human complexity through abstract and experimental techniques. With a focus on themes of self-expression, culture, and transformation, Matei’s work invites viewers to look beyond the surface and engage with the deeper aspects of identity
Each of Matei’s sessions is a collaborative journey, where photographer and subject work together to uncover the unique spirit and creative energy within.
Through The Fluidity of Identity, Matei aims to bring together a diverse community, creating a project that celebrates individual stories while encouraging collective reflection on the power and beauty of fluid identities.
Exhibition and Project Updates
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FAQ
— What is The Fluidity of Identity?
The Fluidity of Identity is a conceptual photography project exploring the evolving and multifaceted nature of identity. Through abstract, layered, and experimental portraiture, the project explores themes of cultural, gender, and personal identity.
— Who can participate in the project?
This project is open to individuals from all backgrounds who are interested in expressing their identity through visual storytelling. No prior modeling experience is necessary, just an open mind and a willingness to collaborate.
— How do I apply to be part of the project?
If you are interested in participating, please follow this link and fill out the collaboration form. Due to high interest, only selected applicants will be contacted.
— What should I expect from the collaboration?
Each session is a creative and immersive experience. We will discuss your story, explore visual concepts, and experiment with photography techniques that best represent your identity. Sessions are relaxed and tailored to your comfort level.
— Will I receive copies of the photos?
Yes! Selected images from your session will be shared with you for personal use, and you will be credited in any exhibitions or publications where your image is featured.
— How will the photos be used?
The images may be showcased in exhibitions, online galleries, or publications related to the project. Participants will always be informed before any major exhibitions or media features.
— Is participation paid?
This is an artistic collaboration and is not a paid modeling opportunity. However, you will receive high-quality images and be part of an important creative endeavor that may gain visibility in the art world.
— Is my personal story confidential?
Absolutely. Any personal experiences you share will be handled with sensitivity and respect. You can choose how much or how little to disclose, and your privacy is a priority.
— Can I withdraw from the project after joining?
Yes, participants can withdraw at any time. However, if images have already been created and used in exhibitions or promotions, their removal will be discussed on a case-by-case basis.
— How can I stay updated on the project?
Subscribe to the newsletter to receive updates on exhibitions, new projects, and behind-the-scenes insights.
For any further questions, feel free to reach out at hello@project.mateimuntiu.eu
I look forward to creating something meaningful together!
My Creative Process
It always starts with a spark.
Every photoshoot begins with an idea, simple at first, like “portrait in nature” or more abstract, such as “the fluidity of identity.” These ideas are seeds, small but full of potential.
Once I have the initial concept, I start layering it with meaning. I think about the elements that can bring the vision to life. For a “portrait in nature,” words like outdoors, trees, branches, flowers, grass, hills, and sea come to mind. These words shape the imagery. I imagine a subject framed by bare tree branches, their presence both part of the environment and distinct from it. Should the image be in black and white? Color? At this stage, nothing is fixed. Ideas are fluid, open to change as the vision sharpens.
From here, I turn to inspiration. I study other photographers’ work and build a mood board to explore tone and atmosphere. Should the project feel melancholy? Dreamlike? Gritty? Mystery and strength often pull me in. These questions help define the mood, adding layers of emotion to the visual framework.
When the vision feels grounded, I collaborate with the model. I present my ideas, and we brainstorm together. What details resonate? What locations bring the story to life? Trees or sand? Grass or rocks? Each frame tells its own story, but together, they weave a narrative larger than any single image.
For conceptual shoots, I may use techniques like double or long exposure or incorporate objects to reinforce the theme. Once the ideas are clear, we tackle logistics: locations, wardrobe, props, and lighting.
But here’s the truth: plans are just the beginning. Improvisation is where the magic happens. During the shoot, I collaborate closely with the model, encouraging creativity and spontaneity. It’s not about following directions; it’s about co-creating something authentic. We experiment, adapt, and invent as we go. The process becomes a dialogue, a shared exploration of the unknown.
This approach makes the experience memorable. Not just for me, but for the model too. Creativity has a way of unlocking something in us, reminding us of times when imagination flowed freely, and stories unfolded without limits. Photography, to me, is no different. It’s play, it’s discovery, and it’s capturing those fleeting moments where everything feels real. Those are the moments that linger; in memory and in the photographs themselves.