Triggered by my deepening interests in the western culture of beauty, Maskarada project also became a more elaborate experiment with set construction and costume design.
The idea for this project emerged from research on female body modification practices observed throughout history; From the nineteenth century apparatus such as the notorious corset to the more current aesthetic surgical practices, application of hair extensions and artificial nails.
Containing both historical and contemporary references, this particular body of work is meant to emphasize the perpetual appeal of beauty and its practices. While the project's execution refers back to the sleek and illustrative depiction of fashion in contemporary media.
From mirrors to shreds of fashion magazine pages, an array of beauty symbols set up the stage for a masquerade performed by doll-like women; a performance, which director remains unnamed. Amidst this amalgam of fashion glamour, historical heredity and technological present, the individual is portrayed as an automated slave to the desire of attaining physical perfection.
For this series I have been awarded Photographer of the Year title by International Photography Awards. Click here to view photos from the 04 Lucies Ceremony in NYC. Subsequently, "Corset Tying" was exhibited in the Best of Show at Farmani Gallery in Los Angeles, CA. Click here to view photos from the exhibit.