“I paint self-portraits because I am so often alone, because I am the person I know best.” — Frida Kahlo

Why do people make self-portraits? Frida Kahlo, a famous self-portraitist, gives one reason. Here are some others:

• Convenience: A self-portrait uses the subject that’s always at hand: the artist. (Of course, they became more practical when affordable mirrors hit the market.)
• Money: When hiring a model isn’t an option.
• Fun: Don’t tell us these artists didn’t get a kick out of hiding themselves in paintings.
• Introspection: As Kahlo suggested, painting oneself is a way of investigating the person you know best. It’s also an opportunity to say something more.
• Empowerment: A self-portrait is a way of celebrating oneself and holding up the version of yourself you want the world to see — especially if you don’t see people like you in the art canon.

In an age in which we keep both a mirror and a phone in our pockets, the self-portrait is more popular than ever. To celebrate National Selfie Day today, we’re sharing some of our favorite blog posts about self-portraits. Read the posts below and see why you think these self portraits were painted, photographed, and collaged:

What are some of your favorite self-portraits? Why do you think they were created? Let us know in the comments!