In this next phase of our exploration into identity and recognition, we’ve turned our attention to one of the most globally recognized figures in modern history: Queen Elizabeth II. In a world where pop culture icons are increasingly fragmented by the digital age and streaming services, it’s rare to find a person universally known across generations. After thoughtful discussions, we concluded that Queen Elizabeth is perhaps the last figure of this kind-someone whose face has been etched into the collective memory of millions worldwide.

While not a monarchist, I was drawn to this idea because Queen Elizabeth represents a unique blend of continuity and change. Her reign spans decades, and her image has evolved alongside the shifting world. Despite the passage of time, her face remains instantly recognizable, offering a powerful narrative about how identity can persist even as the body ages.

In this project, we’ve applied the same deconstruction and reconstruction techniques used in our previous work, taking two iconic images of Queen Elizabeth-one from her youth and one from her later years. Using a grid system, we fragmented each image into smaller sections, then reassembled them to create hybrid portraits that reveal both the familiarity of her face and the effects of time.

The results are striking: despite the stark contrast between the images of the young and older Queen, there’s an undeniable continuity in her identity. This project invites viewers to reflect on the passage of time, the aging process, and how even the most iconic figures are subject to change. At the same time, it raises broader questions about the role of fame and how certain individuals, like Queen Elizabeth, transcend the cultural silos that often divide our world today.