The project was created to celebrate my 19th birthday and has since become an annual tradition to capture my personal growth each year. I took on the roles of primary model and concept director, diving into metaverse themes and experimenting with multiple media. Collaborators included Ha Le, who created 3D elements, and Nhat Minh, who served as the main photographer. I also worked as a retoucher to enhance the final images.
The objective was to explore my evolving self-expression and artistic growth through a mix of media. By directing the concept and modeling, I aimed to showcase both my creative vision and personal style. Working with Ha Le on 3D visuals and Nhat Minh on photography, we created a project that captures who I am each year, blending different art forms to reflect my journey.
The concept research for this project drew from the metaverse trend and my fascination with 3D modeling at the time. Ha Le and I collaborated to create a chrome-look 3D model, adding a futuristic edge to the project. Nhat Minh and I also explored options for lighting and posing, aiming for bold, high-contrast visuals. We wanted a high-fashion, dynamic feel, with expressive poses and striking colors that would enhance the overall impact.
For the setting and lighting, Nhat Minh and I chose two distinct setups. The first was a high-contrast green light that cast strong shadows, giving my skin a tinted, intense look with sharp silhouettes and an aggressive edge, inspired by Shego from Kim Possible, my favorite character. The second setup involved a challenging gradient background, created with blue lighting on a white background for a natural, blended look. These choices allowed us to play with both bold contrasts and subtle gradients, adding depth and character to the project.
For the appearance, I went with a full black outfit to create a strong contrast against the background while ensuring I stood out with interesting details. I chose a Meliorim bodysuit featuring unique cut-outs, paired with vintage boots and thrifted black pants. My signature wolf-cut hair, styled in multiple layers, added texture to the look. For makeup, I opted for a doll-like effect with a soft pink blush under the eyes, giving a playful touch to balance the intense setting.
