margaret johnsoninfo    work    photo
PERSONALITIES.
I have long been interested in the idea that individuals present different facets of themselves depending on social context. While this concept is often referred to in contemporary slang as “code switching,” my interpretation extends beyond language or cultural behavior. I view it as a broader psychological and social phenomenon, an adaptive practice through which individuals adjust aspects of their identity to align with the expectations and norms of various environments. For instance, the way one interacts with a close friend naturally differs from how one behaves around a supervisor or family member. Rather than perceiving these variations as inauthentic, I sought to understand and visualize them as essential components of the self.
For this project, I created a video structured as a simulated Zoom call featuring nine distinct versions of myself. Each character was defined by a unique setting, outfit, and mannerism, representing the diverse identities that emerge in different situations. The script follows a meta-narrative in which these versions discuss possible ideas for the very project they inhabit, as well as my experiences and insecurities as a first-year art student. Through this dialogue, I explore themes of self-perception, belonging, and creative doubt. One character, named “Soccer Maggie,” embodies encouragement and confidence, while another (sleep-deprived and disengaged) reflects my moments of burnout. Collectively, these personas illustrate the fragmented yet interconnected nature of identity, highlighting how our many selves coexist, conflict, and ultimately contribute to a more complete understanding of who we are.

April 2023.
margaretjjohnsonn@gmail.com