This is PERSONA

The term we used as a title for this project derives from Latin, initially referring to a mask that was employed in theatre. The word can be traced back to the Etruscan word “phersu” (with the same meaning) and also the Greek πρόσωπον. In certain contexts, it’s a reference to duality.

All characters wear masks, as seen in every single picture. Both masks are hand-painted by the artist, one being predominantly white with black motifs, while the other is white. Life is simply the main reason for the choice of mask form and colour. Good and evil is axiomatic in everything - any good person has evil tendencies, while any evil character has good in them. No one is perfect in this world; it’s either positive or negative.

“Another reason for the mask choice was depersonalisation. My wish was to emphasise body language, theme and photographic composition. Being a fan of classic colour schemes, I chose uniformisation, expressed through black and white photography with sepia impulses”. 

Ene Lucian

The models portrayed here are not professionals; they are your normal, everyday girl. Printing will be proportional to natural human sizes (e.g. one specific print is 2.6/1.5 m).

Structurally, the exhibition will be organised into two sides. Both masks will be displayed at the entrance, sided by two “intro prints”, each with one mask. All works containing the white mask will be placed on the right side of the exhibition, while on the left, visitors will be able to observe and enjoy works containing the black mask.

“Every shot has to be authentic. I’d rather use natural light every time and thus spend less and less time in the studio. A challenge is always welcome and compromises have no place when it comes to a perfect still”. 

Ene Lucian

Lucian Ionut Ene (b. 1978) 

EDUCATION

2004–2008
Babes Bolyai University - Faculty of Economics and Business Management, Cluj-Napoca
(Romania)
Profile: Banks and stock exchanges
2000–2004
Babes Bolyai University - Faculty of Political Science, Cluj-Napoca (Romania)

EXHIBITIONS

2012  "Atmosphere" - in the exhibition space "Words", Cluj-Napoca (Romania)
2012 "Atmosphere"  - in the exhibition space of the Japanese Cultural Center Nobori, Cluj-Napoca (Romania)
2009 "Only", Retro exhibition space, Cluj-Napoca (Romania)
2020 " Persona "- Bucharest, Calea Victoriei