FMP Reflective Journal

RUFESCENT STATE

Concept Development

The initial development of this series of images began with focusing on how the notion of colour can be used as a metaphor that alone has the ability to impress key symbolic values on a spectator. The meaning of colour has been integral throughout my own person creative development over the past two years, and is something I have used as a foundation to support and amplify my creativity. In my eyes an image needs to portray something far greater than just a beautiful aesthetic output. Art historian John Gage (1999, p. 147) outlines the significance of colour as symbolism that creates a universal human phenomenon, recognised largely as a means of visual communication. Colour has the ability to penetrate far below the surface. With this in mind I feel that in order to take my work to the next level, symbolism and the meaning of colour needs to be fully integrated within my imagery. 

I see art as a process of layering, combing a variety of ingredients to create something spectacular that is completely unique in contrast to each individual element that has been put in. Each factor plays its part, when I combine a variety of different visuals, techniques and materials with strong conceptual research the output is often far greater than initially expected. Recognising my own ability as a creative has allowed me to build my confidence and not be so afraid to produce work that is utterly individual to my work. I no longer see myself as just a makeup artist, but instead something else - I cannot define what role I know see myself playing as I believe I have enabled myself to touch base with every different stage of my image production. The visual outputs display more than just makeup, more than just photography and light...they display something more powerful. 

It is important for me to consider how each of my shoots will be brought together as a collative piece and how they will be displayed in the online exhibition. At the start of the project I had focused a lot on using shades of green, pink and blue to create a techo feel to the imagery. These colours have all worked well so far but I want to add something more power into the mix. Professor Patti Bellantoni (2005) states "colour influences our choices, our opinions, and our emotional state. Our feelings of euphoria or rage, calm or agitation can be intensified or subdued by the colours in our environment". With this is mind I aim to connect to the viewer in a less superficial way than most, I want divulge deeper into their mind through the communication of visual language and colour symbolism.   

The colour red often signifies an energising power, a power that is similarly reflected through the use of modern technology. I want to expand the viewer’s perception of reality through the combination of these two elements. Technology is used today to elevate and expand physical reality into something more spectacular, charged full of an inhuman power that seems almost extra-terrestrial.    

VISUAL INSPIRATION

CASTING CALLING

FACE CHART

Having to previously cancel this shoot and postpone by 6 days due to illness, I was concerned about time management.  Although the extra time I gained I focused on planning every element in order to make the most of the time I had in the studio. Some of my previous shoots have started off with a very bumpy start. I had hoped to have an assistant to help out on this shoot but unfortunately she was unable to attend. 

Prepping the photographer more than a week in advance enabled her to practice some of the photography skills I wanted to feature in the shoot. This allowed us to have a clear focus on what we wanted to achieve, and more importantly how we would achieve the final aesthetic of the imagery. 

(Above image; photographers practice)

This look was something I briefly touched upon in my FMP proposal. I had created double exposure images using fabric. Although I liked the direction in which this image where going I felt they were quite bland and empty. During this practice shoot the photographer really struggled to create what I wanted. I decided for the proper shoot to work with another photographer who had more experience in producing this short of imagery.

FMP PROPOSAL SHOOT

Something I have been struggling with throughout the development of this project is keeping the presence of makeup fully integrated within the overall design of the shoot. Instead of first developing the overall aesthetic of the shoot I chose to begin with the makeup and hair design. Once this was chosen I then developed the creative direction of the shoot, and kept in mind how the makeup could be equally reflected within the concept of the shoot and what props/background I could use within taking away from the makeup.

BTS SHOT

Incorporating flawless skin with reflective skin embellishment was a key focus for this look. I was very conscious not to over do the makeup as when it is combined with the rest of the art direction for the shoot I did not want it to become over powering. The use of large reflective sequins was the link the background directly with the model, I did not want her to be separate from the environment around her. Instead of using lighting effects and distorting elements I chose to incorporate smaller, more subtle ways to enhance the imagery which would be cover or alliterate the makeup. Finding the right balance is very important.