Portraits of Self

As Portraits of Self organically grows and all the excitement that comes with it, we’re looking back at the first opportunity we had to connect in-person last Spring. If you’re interested in being part of the story, email [email protected]. @portraitsofself___ #portraitsofself Photos by @nastyapudova

I feel most inspired when __________. How would you fill in the blank? @portraitsofself___ #portraitsofself Photo by @nastyapudova

Voices from Portraits of Self. I introduced Portraits of Self last spring to a small group of women in Barcelona. It started as a project created to uncover the threads that connect us, focusing on the shared moments of the human experience rather than the differences. Guided by thoughtful prompts, it’s less about polished answers or perfect storytelling, and more about holding space to reflect, connect, and share openly. Since its launch, I’ve been astounded by the reaction and how it has resonated with people near and far. I have had the privilege to host more events and to read thousands of responses from both children and adults, and they never cease to inspire me. There is so much more to come for this project through future events in different cities to new partners and sharing more and more voices through different channels. It is a privilege to bring this passion project to life. For now, each week, I share a small selection of responses from Portraits of Self on my Substack. It’s interesting to see how differently people answer the same prompts, and yet how each response feels honest, beautiful, and entirely their own. It highlights both our individualism and our shared humanity, which sits at the heart of this project. I hope these reflections offer something meaningful to you, too. If you would like to add your voice, there are a few blank cards in the mix for you to add your own response. Tag @portraitsofself___ to share with the project. Lastly, if you’d like to be part of the project or bring Portraits of Self to your community, reach out at [email protected]. And, to read more of the voices subscribe to my Substack. Link in Bio. I am excited to share more as the project grows. Thank you for following along!

As I have been sharing here-and-there, over the past few months I’ve been quietly building Portraits of Self behind-the-scenes. I shared a bit about this heart-lead passion project on my Substack. You can read it through the link in my bio. Photo by @nastyapudova

Behind the scenes this summer, we’ve been gently bringing Portraits of Self to life. Rooted in reflection and connection, it’s a project shaped by thoughtful prompts and honest answers, each one a window into what makes us who we are. These are just a few of the voices we’ve gathered so far. There’s so much more to come. Follow along as it continues to unfold @portraitsofself_ .

I just got this video back and it brought back all the emotions of the night. The first Portraits of Self gathering — shared in a room full of warmth, curiosity, and honest conversation. It still feels surreal to see an idea that lived in my head for so long come to life so fully. That night wasn’t just about beauty in a visual sense — it was about presence, connection, and creating space for people to be seen and heard. Grateful to everyone who was part of it. And so excited for what’s ahead for @portraitsofself_ . 🎥 | @marcanisibaron

Last week, I hosted my very first event here in Barcelona at @junohouseclub — and it’s taken me some time to fully process just how special it was. The night was steeped in creativity, reflection, and connection. A celebration of beauty — in blooms and objects, in conversation and presence. Not just the beauty we see, but the kind we feel. When I started Devon Liedtke, it was a space to explore creative self-expression. Beauty has always been at the heart of my work — but for a long time, I’ve felt a pull toward something deeper. Something rooted in connection. Living in Barcelona, and meeting people from all walks of life, has shown me again and again how much we share as humans — our stories, our emotions, our inner worlds. That’s what sparked Portraits of Self — a project born from that desire to explore and honor our shared experience. At the event, I shared Portraits of Self for the first time. Seeing it received with such warmth and curiosity meant more than I can say. I can’t wait to share more about this project — both here and over on @PortraitsofSelf_ — in the days ahead. It’s only the beginning. Photos by @nastyapudova