Torso – Self portrait

Peter Peryer’s meticulously planned self-portraits are striking. Torso – Self Portrait illustrates how carefully he executes his self-representations. This psychologically charged image expresses the artist’s masculinity in its prime and his obvious self-confidence. He stands totally at ease, completely comfortable in his own appearance. The ‘Oxford bag’ trousers that he wears are stylishly old-fashioned.

By not including his face or shoulders, Peryer draws attention to the way portraiture always relies on the depiction of a subject’s face. His decision to hide his hands from view brings further attention to his torso. The precisely controlled shift in and out of focus adds a moody quality to the photograph. There is an impression of self-regard, showing the viewer a sensual and playful way of looking at oneself.

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