A first impression is formed quickly, even in a fraction of a second. Within half a minute, we often have a judgment ready, a judgment that is usually lasting. This initial impression is not only influential in the physical world but also in the digital world. On the internet, where the whole world is at our fingertips, we form opinions rapidly. The threshold for judgment seems lower in this digital environment; behind our screens, we feel free to pass judgments.

It remains a current theme: people are excluded and judged based on background, appearance, and faith. This thought piqued my curiosity. What if I were to portray these people, whom I only encounter through the internet? Instead of judging them within seconds, I decided to challenge myself to look at them intensively and for a longer period. I began to study them, every detail, every wrinkle, and every strand of hair receiving my full attention.

During this process, a special bond formed with the unknown individuals before my eyes. As I worked on the portraits, I began not only to zoom in on the details but also on who these people could be. What could their background be? What experiences have they had? What moves them? What are their names?

Slowly but surely, these individuals became more than just faces on a piece of paper. Their various facial features began to tell stories that went far beyond the initial impression. The stories I created in my mind were sometimes miles away from my own life, yet I still felt a connection.

Perhaps those who view my work can take the same step. Can they look at the person for longer and form a connection that goes beyond that first impression, and in many cases, the judgment?