White Lace-Bottom Maxi
It is no secret that as women, we have all been redefining our place in
this world. It becomes increasingly clear that we have a choice in how we
present ourselves. As photographers, it is our job to present truth and
the beauty within it. There is a push and pull between our desires, our
responsibilities, and expectations placed upon us by the world. It is
tempting to simply throw up our flag of surrender and convince ourselves
that these limitations are not all that important. However, they are.
If your hope is that this group of all female photographers wanted to
bring you a pretty girl in a pretty dress, then you have come to the wrong
place. Those who truly display strength and femininity inspired this
project. Too often we are told that beauty is quiet, non-confrontational,
and looks like something none of us understand. However, this project
stands on the notion that you cannot be feminine if you are not strong, if
you are not brave, and if you believe that beauty cannot exist with
wildness.
“Never did the world make a queen of a girl who hides in houses and dreams
without traveling.” ― Roman Payne, The Wanderess
This Traveling Dress Project is unique insofar as it provides a voice
without speaking. It plays on the idea that silence is no longer our
limitation. You are welcome to gaze upon these pieces and realize that
silence does not exist for us. We will speak regardless of who is
listening because our strength radiates through mediums. And while Louisa
May Alcott may claim “Let us be elegant, or die,” we say that is bullshit
because we create our own elegance.
I want to thank all of the participants in this group for their creative expressions of power and femininity. Michelle Fernandes Fox, Abi Kent, Taylor Lange, Kristina Yamamoto, Jasmine Abbey, and Brandy Britton. And last but not least, Mariona from Mimetik Bcn for the donation of the stunning gown. -Kristen Giles (Group Leader)