About the series

The creation of the series "Girlhood" explores the multifaceted nature of femininity, aiming to challenge societal norms and expectations associated with being a girl. The series unfolds deliberately, transitioning from serene moments to unsettling and dark realities. The purpose is to initiate a dialogue around the complexities of identity, the challenges inherent in femininity, and the often-overlooked struggles that girls face.

The order of the images is strategically chosen to highlight the difference between societal expectations and the gritty truths of girlhood. The overarching theme revolves around the paradox of what is perceived versus what it truly means to be a girl.

The initial image portrays beauty and tranquility, depicting an ordinary scene of carefree girls in moments of happiness. While aesthetically pleasing, this scene sets the stage for a profound shift in tone. The transition begins with an intimate photograph of two friends enjoying the comfort of a safe environment. This idealistic depiction is broken in the next image, revealing the painful aftermath of socially imposed undergarments, symbolizing discomfort and insecurities.

The exploration extends to beauty rituals as the series dives into the seemingly innocent act of applying makeup. What is conventionally seen as a fun and voluntary activity among women takes a dark turn in the fourth photo. Using a kitchen knife to guide eyeliner application is a metaphor for makeup as both a weapon and a painful attempt to serve societal beauty standards.

The series concludes by addressing the perception of eating – an often romanticized everyday activity. The penultimate image presents a lighthearted expectation of eating as easy and enjoyable. However, the final image challenges this notion, depicting a faceless subject sneaking to find food in the fridge late at night. This is a powerful commentary on the hidden struggles and pressures surrounding body image and eating habits.

From a technical standpoint, the series employs deliberate lighting, tone, and orientation choices to enhance the thematic impact. The expected images are shown in higher lighting and warmer tones, creating a dreamy and feminine atmosphere. In contrast, the reality pieces adopt a darker and more quiet palette, emphasizing the raw and uncomfortable truths they reveal.

In essence, "Girlhood" is a photographic narrative that employs visual storytelling to illuminate the diverse facets of femininity, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges girls and women face.