Chanelling Bellmer through Bourdin

In this exploration of femininity, I draw from the unsettling imagery of the fashion world, inspired by the provocative styles of Bourdin and the surreal doll sculptures of Bellmer. As a woman, I've wrestled with the meanings and expression  of female sexuality and beauty. Adapting to the male gaze, I was captivated by the disturbing but still pleasing aesthetics where emotionless, vacant expressions meet strong, provocative poses. There’s an allure in how narratives can emerge from this cold imagery—stories that transcend mere surface appearances.

Like Bourdin, I aim to capture the essence of femininity through bold compositions and colors, embracing unapologetic sensuality. Each pose exudes confidence, inviting viewers to explore the complexities of desire and identity. In the spirit of Bellmer, I manipulate bodies and forms to challenge conventional notions of beauty, revealing the tensions between femininity and the uncanny.

Both Bourdin and Bellmer share a fascination with the surreal—perhaps a fear of real flesh-and-blood women. They and I navigate a landscape where beauty is both alluring and disturbing, reflecting our collective anxieties about femininity in an age saturated with sexualized images.