The contrast between milk-bottle skin and the rich, leathery crocodile and alligator hide that envelop Lidi Kochetkova is jolting. Thoughts of animal cruelty and how one should feel with regards to its place in the world of fashion swirl merilessly alongside fascination and an appreciation for the beautiful work of photographer, Arnaud Pyvka. Juxtaposition is the name of the game as animalistic material drench the virginal and angelic subject, and although the shoot was intended as a showcase of material, something deeper stirs beneath. 

She is naked, composed. She is exposed and awkwardly positioned. She is comfortable. She is a living canvas for the incredible skins of tannery Heng Long International, supplier to designers such as Prada and Louis Vuitton. The bright white and often over exposed images are a refelction of the message. A message of art and beauty, of laying preconceptions aside and appreciating what is placed before you.

For interview and more photographs see: http://www.nowness.com/day/2012/8/28/2339/exotic-skins

Ryan Michael’s portraits are sketchy, slightly blurred, dreamlike, realistic. The women’s faces are never revealed. They are secretive but not necessarily hiding. They are feminine, sexual, self assured but with a sense of naivity to their power. Michaels encapsulates the essence of woman in the pieces displayed.

http://www.ryanmichaeldesign.com

Illustrator and graphic designer, Denise Nestor’s works closely resemble the later sketches of a fashion designer laced with quirky elements such as her almost trademark bunny suit. Undeniably realistic with a somewhat unfinished element to them, these illustrations are addictive, almost hypnotic.

http://treesforthewoods.blogspot.com/

From textile design to illustration, Keelin Corscadden (or Keelinardo as she wittily christened herself as a child!) is ticking all the boxes when it comes to design with a difference. Taking inspiration from fairy tales, Tim Burton and the goings on inside her head, her eclectic art work is nothing short of eye catching. 

Keelin’s most recent accomplishment has been the publishing of The Doodlers Anonymous 2012 Calendar. Her Andy Warhol-esque image of Marilyn Monroe and John Lennon made August in the calendar which can be bought here: http://www.doodlersanonymous.com/ 

See Keelin’s work 

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Keelin-Corscadden-Designs/180866441949247

http://memoirsofamaterialgirl.blogspot.com/