written by art historian & curator Mihaela Manolache
In the annals of photographic history, few phenomena have reshaped the landscape of self-expression quite like the selfie. Born from the fusion of technology, social media, and a cultural shift towards individualism, the selfie has transcended its humble beginnings to become a ubiquitous form of communication and self-representation, particularly among the youth. The birth of the selfie can be traced back to the advent of front-facing cameras on mobile devices, a feature that transformed the way individuals interacted with their own image. No longer confined to the realm of professional photographers or cumbersome digital cameras, people suddenly had the power to capture themselves in the moment, unfiltered and unscripted.
This newfound ability to document one’s own likeness gave rise to a cultural phenomenon that quickly permeated every corner of society. From teenagers snapping mirror selfies in their bedrooms to travellers documenting their adventures around the globe, the selfie has become a universal language — a visual shorthand for sharing experiences, emotions, and identities. But the impact of the selfie extends far beyond its surface-level portrayal as a mere trend or fad. At its core, the selfie reflects a broader cultural shift towards self-expression, particularly among younger generations.
