Spirit Queen, an exhibition that opened last week in Melbourne, is where photography, film and fashion come together in an exploration of spirituality and the relationship between femininity and the natural world.
Photographer Christian Blanchard , stylist Bec Cole and model Louise Van de Vorst collaborated on this multimedia project with a collection of images and a film that, for all intensive purposes, should be considered an absolute highlight of the Virgin Australia Melbourne Fashion Festival (VAMFF). Partly because it’s easily accessible and free for anyone to view, but also because the imagery differs from the more commercial aspects of the festival which culminates with the runway parades at Central Pier in the Docklands.
Blanchard’s photos evoke mythology, culture and beauty in pieces such as ‘DEATH, ‘DREAM,’ and ‘DARKNESS,’ but told through the lens of editorial fashion styling. In each image, Van de Vorst’s body is adorned with jewels, ethnic headpieces and finely embroidered clothes.
The photos and film are dark and ethereal, asking you to invest more than a glance at models flitting past on a runway – which is just what fashion week should do.
A must see.
Where:
Yarra Gallery, Federation Square
Corner Swanston Street & Flinders Street
Melbourne, 3000
For further information please contact info@christianblanchard.com
