In this chapter of my creative stage, through this collection 'Awake', I would like to talk about the notions of Beauty. Beauty in my eyes will mostly come from the spirit of an individual, energy they emit and the glow that energy produces around a person. When all the human imperfections/perfection just melt in the haze of that glow. I can see beauty in almost everyone, hence I wanted to ask others how they see beauty. In todays society, through advertising, beauty and fashion industry we are often made to feel that we are not good enough as we are, unless we buy products that they are selling or look like a model from the cover of a magazine. Therefore I wish to photograph women as they are - in whichever stage of their life they find themselves and talk about how the everyday women feel about fashion beauty standards, who they find beautiful and happiness. 'Awake' poster woman Eleni Kyriacou (34) has kindly engaged with me in this conversation.
KB: When are you happiest?
EK: When I feel at peace in my thoughts, spirit and heart. Were I feel completely in the moment. No worry of the future or past just in the Now.
KB: What kind of person would you describe as beautiful?
KB: Someone in their own complete truth. Strong, vulnerable, kind and generous. It's an essence that beams out of them and makes them beautiful rather than an aesthetic notion.
KB: How do you think fashion industry standards of beauty influenced you and your vision of yourself?
EK: I did fashion when I left school and I found it hard to connect with. I realised I loved the designers, costumiers and creators who saw a story behind a look. A world erupted around me at this point and I realised how much fun I could have with what I chose to wear and how I presented myself. Like masks in theatre I played with fashion and looks not seasonal but more like a costume in order to empower and help project what I chose I needed support with. Most importantly I recognised that it's always a choice with which brings me a great source of creativity, joy and sometimes wild pleasure.