The Matrescence Project
I am so glad you are here!
I’m Aisling, a photographer that focuses on love.
My usual approach to my photography work is making women feel their absolute best. Whichever stage they are in their journey.
Family, newborn and maternity photography are my specialty, I love nothing more than capturing the beautiful love and connection people have with those most dear to them.
It’s not possible to get the most out of my sessions without a little insight and introspection into the monumental changes we go through while learning to become a mother, a process known as Matrescence.
Matrescence is the term that was coined in 1973 by Dana Raphael PH.D which describes the process of becoming a mother. Through a series of physical, hormonal and identity changes, this period is not unlike adolescence. While we are all pretty well versed in the coming-of-age teenage storyline, many women face into this next big transition phase with extraordinarily little understanding of how huge it’s going to be.
Alexandra Sacks MD, a reproductive psychologist talks in her NY Times article about the unrealistic examples of the “perfect Mom” that we are constantly shown. How this fantasy can lead to unnecessary pain due to unrealistic expectations.
As part of my study in photography I have decided to throw myself, wholeheartedly, into creating a space for women to experience their own matrescence in a more personal and real way.
By opening up a space for mothers to take part in a project that shows how beautiful these new bodies of ours are. The absolute power, that these little beings have been created by, often nourished by and comforted by our bodies. With the creation of these images I would hope that it will help all those involved talk about and understand this transition period that is so utterly life changing.
When my little girl was just a few months old I discovered a love of photography. It came at a time when I was struggling, the physical changes and demands of new motherhood and trying to figure out my new identity. Trying to make sense of this new relationship with this perfect little being who I loved more than anything, but would not stop crying!
Immersing myself in every aspect of the photographic process became my lifeline and an intrinsic part of the new identity that was emerging.
It feels to me that using everything I’ve learned about photographing with emotion is the most fitting way to explore the process of matrescence for both myself and other women.
I’ve chosen to do this by creating a portfolio of fine art portraits that shine a light on these changes in our bodies and how our bodies interact with our babies and children.
I’m hoping to find 5 Mothers, right in the trenches with me who would like to take part in this journey. I just ask that, if you wish to take part your youngest child be under 2 years old and that you approach the project with an open mind. In return you will get to be part of something I believe to be an important undertaking in helping every woman experience their own matrescence journey with an open heart.
Whether you are one of the Mama’s that choose to take part in this fine art portfolio, or you are just along as support crew you are very welcome.
I hope that you will help me along in my journey to create an open and supportive space for women to experience their own matrescence in a more personal and real way.
