We are cloaked in the constructed image society has imposed, much like the layers of plaster encasing the protagonists' bodies. These layers conform to the body’s contours, thus symbolise the societal constraints placed on the body, making it easier to accept and internalise society’s constructed image of the body without questioning it.

This photo series delves into society's sexualisation and objectification of female bodies, inviting a critical examination of one's own and society's perception of the body. It illustrates the moment when one becomes aware of these societal constraints. Yet, by questioning this image, the protagonists are able to detach themselves from the gaze on bodies and begin the process of liberation from socially constructed body images.

Gaze On Bodies

The way society perceives bodies has a profound impact on how we view ourselves and others. The objectification of female bodies, reducing people perceived as women to their bodies, is a pervasive issue that persists today. The body as an object.

This photo series represents a journey into a utopian dream world where the protagonists break free from the narrative by breaking out of their cast. An emancipation of the female body.

Creative Direction
Sarah Schurian

Photography
Frederick Herrmann

Models
Navy Leonhardt
Naemi de Souza Beck
Sarah Schurian

The body as an object.

Through their surreal and aesthetic exploration of their own bodies, encased in plaster and appearing almost statuesque, the protagonists confront the societal constructs that have shaped their perception of their own bodies. As they shed the layers of plaster, they also shed the layers of societal expectations that have confined them. The journey towards self-perception and questioning illuminates the barriers that society has constructed around female bodies, dictating the roles they are expected to fulfil. We unconsciously conform to the societal norms depicted in this image. We are cloaked in the constructed image society has imposed, much like the layers of plaster encasing the protagonists' bodies. These layers conform to the body’s contours, thus symbolise the societal constraints placed on the body, making it easier to accept and internalise society’s constructed image of the body without questioning it.

This photo series delves into society's sexualisation and objectification of female bodies, inviting a critical examination of one's own and society's perception of the body. It illustrates the moment when one becomes aware of these societal constraints. Yet, by questioning this image, the protagonists are able to detach themselves from the gaze on bodies and begin the process of liberation from socially constructed body images. The dream state in which the protagonists find themselves throughout their journey highlights the utopian nature of this process of emancipation.