TEXT & PHOTO: NATTAKORN CHOONHAVAN

(For Thai, press here) 

Before I set out on foot and began my photographic journey to various locales, I established a thematic foundation centered on the concepts of ‘reflection’ and ‘duality.’ Each time I encountered scenes that embodied these concepts, I captured them, preserving these moments for further introspection. For instance, reflections in water that distort and invert reality reminded me of the theory of parallel worlds. Similarly, images of lotus leaves overlapping with concrete structures brought to mind how humans, like the mythological Lotus Eaters, are ensnared in the capitalist cycle. Photographs of butterflies fluttering within cages led me to ponder the notion of human freedom—trapped in the cyclical nature of existence yet possessing a spirit that soars and dreams of liberty. This thematic foundation provoked deeper reflections on the philosophies of existence as seen through the mundane moments of my daily life.

Freedom in The Cage

The butterfly may be physically confined to a cage, yet its mind freely wanders to distant places, mirroring the human quest for freedom and the deeper meanings of life. Even while constrained by societal constructs, rules, and the sheer dimensions of our existence, along with the cycles of samsara, we remain driven to define our purpose and uncover the essence of our lives.

The Reversed World and The Lotus Eater

This concept speaks to living within an endless cycle of rebirth and an ever-expanding parallel world. In any realm, we might become Lotus Eaters—those from Greek mythology who, in their quest for happiness, consumed lotus flowers and forgot all else in life. We endlessly pursue desires and materialism, a ceaseless chase that only halts when we grasp the true essence and profound meaning of existence.

The Other Me (s) and The Dividing between the Two Worlds

Every reflection I see in water or mirror always has my mind wondering about the myriad dimensions that ripple through this universe. I believe these mirrored selves are echoes of us in multiple realms. Yet, no matter the world we inhabit, we still strive tirelessly towards our deepest desires, ascend towards our dreams, relentlessly developing in pursuit of perpetual growth.

The Encounter

This image unfolds into various imaginable interpretations. To some, it reveals the intricacies of a brain; to others, the vital breath of lungs. Yet through my eyes, it portrays two masked figures in silent confrontation. It bears a dual significance: masks grant us the liberty to assume any guise and skins that are not our own. Simultaneously, these masks form a veil, a sacred space where we can retreat into our truest selves, resonating with our innermost truths.

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Natthakorn Choonhavan is the founder and designer of the jewelry brand Middle M Jewelry. He enjoys capturing images with a film camera during his walks, as this allows him to observe more closely the stories of the people around him. Natthakorn frequently employs light, shadows, and reflections to add depth to his photographs, transforming ordinary scenes into extraordinary snapshots. In documenting everyday life through film photography, he consistently infuses his techniques with emotion and interpretive meanings, carefully selecting angles, distances, and timings for his shots.

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