Self-Portraits and Art as Self-Knowledge with Adrián Coto

Self-Portraits and Art as Self-Knowledge with Adrián Coto

This workshop uses self-portraiture as an artistic tool for self-exploration and reflection.

Through writing, drawing, movement and photography, participants will develop a flow of consciousness that opens new ways of seeing themselves through the camera. The process invites intuitive insight into emotional and cognitive patterns, using art not only as expression, but as a way of producing knowledge about ourselves and the world.

Participants will receive a short PDF before the workshop with key questions and preparation prompts. On the day, we will begin with a gentle embodiment exercise to support physical awareness and emotional presence. This will be followed by free writing and drawing around the simple prompt: “What do I feel right now?”

From this expanded sense of self, participants will create their own self-portraits using a phone or camera. There will also be the option to print and work directly on some of the images. Collaboration will be possible for those who wish to explore the process in pairs or small groups.

The workshop will close with a group reflection, creating space for sharing, care and closure.

This methodology is rooted in Adrian Coto’s experience as a martial artist, meditation practitioner and visual artist, approaching art as a practice of self-knowledge and self-creation.

No previous experience is required. 

This event is open to people of all genders and backgrounds. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward xenophobia, homophobia, ableism, or any form of discrimination. The venue is fully accessible and includes an accessible bathroom, cloakroom, and changing room. There is a sober bar.

This event is part of Stück cultural programme curated by Lidia Ravviso.

Duration: 3.30  hours
Provided: Pencils, paper
Required: Phone or camera, plus any production materials listed in the preparation PDF that will be sent over before the workshop
Optional: Lighting tools, camera/phone tripod

Bio

Adrián Coto is a London based Latin American visual artist whose practice blends sculptural assemblage, photography, and critical theory to explore how bodies are shaped, read, and politicised. Their work interrogates the materiality of the body and the construction of gendered and othered subjectivities, drawing from queer methodologies, assemblage theory, and nonextractive, conversational forms of collaboration.

A graduate of the University of Westminster’s MA Photography Arts (Distinction) and trained in psychology at the University of Costa Rica, Adrián’s researchactive practice spans performance, installation, body casting, and experimental photographic sculpture.

They are the cofounder of Displaced Materials Lab, an internationally exhibited collective examining political inscription and abjection in visual culture. Their work has been shown in London, Amsterdam, Madrid, and Central America, earning recognition including the Arts Council England Global Talent Visa and First Prize in Fine Art Photography at Expofoto Central America and the Caribbean.

Alongside their artistic practice, Adrián designs inclusive, decolonial pedagogical frameworks and teaches across photography, performance, and critical visual theory.

www.senorbabe.com