Rebecca Parker

Tearing at the Surface

Tearing at the Surface is a series of intimate images that explore the female body through close-up details, challenging societal beauty standards. The project critiques the traditional portrayal of the body, often shaped by the male gaze, and emphasises the tactile reality of skin. Through collage and physically tearing photographs, the images evoke a sensory engagement, celebrating natural imperfections—and the genuine uniqueness of each body. By moving away from flawless, retouched images, the work invites viewers to reconsider their own perceptions of beauty, promoting self-acceptance and a deeper connection to one’s own body. These images suggest beauty to be an authentic, personal experience; encouraging a shift in what we see and feel of ourselves—transforming beauty into something deeply felt and inherently human.