The Inescapable Gap Between Self and Image As I reflect on Tom Neenan's portrait painting experience, several aspects stand out. One is the disconnect between how we see ourselves and how others perceive us.
Neenan's 86 year old sitter had a clear sense of self that wasn't necessarily tied to his physical appearance. This phenomenon speaks to a fundamental aspect of human psychology.
We've all stared into mirrors, critiquing our features and wishing for changes that would transform us into idealized versions of ourselves.