At the heart of this project lies a fascination with the unusual, an exploration of otherness, and those who exist at the margins of what is considered normal. It is an affectionate tribute to those who exist outside the conventional norms of beauty and appearance.
The series of black-and-white portraits brings Tessa into a series of encounters with four distinctive male characters: an exceptionally tall man, a very elderly man, a Shibari master and a clown. Through these pairings, I want to explore physical contrast, human presence and the subtle tension that can emerge between two very different individuals sharing the same frame.
Neither documentary nor entirely theatrical, the images of this project seek to explore the unexpected relationships and visual contrasts that emerge between Tessa and these different personalities. Blending curiosity, intimacy and a touch of the absurd, the images will celebrate individuality and the beauty of what makes us different.
The series will be approached as a collection of carefully composed, timeless black-and-white portraits.
The shoot
The shoot will take place at Franz Galo’s studio in Tottenham Hale, London. The aim is to photograph the entire series in one day, with a second day allocated if necessary.
All images will be shot in black and white against expressive backdrops, ranging from light grey to deep black, allowing the subjects’ faces, bodies and individual characters to take centre stage.
The team
Photographer: Franz Galo Main model: Tessa Kuragi Featured subjects: An exceptionally tall man, a very elderly man, a Shibari master and a clown Stylist Hair stylist Make-up artist Set designer Photography assistant
Distribution
The project will result in a cohesive photographic series intended to be presented and shared across several platforms:
Online: Publication across social media and the artists’ websites.
Exhibition: A potential exhibition in a London gallery.
Print: A self-published catalogue or fanzine bringing the series together.
Editorial: Submission to selected magazines and publications.
Behind the scenes: A short BTS film documenting the making of the project and offering a glimpse into the creative process.
