Make-up is dissident. It claims control over identity. It rewrites...
Our recent beauty escapade delved into a kaleidoscopic fusion of colors and hues, transforming each frame into a canvas.
In the captivating realm of beauty storytelling, we embark on a journey that transcends the ordinary – a visual odyssey titled “Solo Symphony.” Here, the narrative unfolds within the exquisite dance of vibrant colors, where a single model becomes not just a canvas but the living embodiment of an artistic exploration into the boundless spectrum of self-expression.
Drawing inspiration from the bold strokes of Pablo Picasso, whose Cubist masterpieces challenged traditional notions of form and perspective, “Solo Symphony” pushes the boundaries of conventional beauty standards, inviting viewers to see the human face as a canvas for bold experimentation. Picasso’s revolutionary approach to color and shape finds resonance in the audacious reds that paint the narrative with strokes of passion and unapologetic confidence, reminiscent of the fiery intensity found in his works.
Deep blues, akin to an artist’s shadow, evoke a sense of mystery and introspection, drawing inspiration from the moody atmospheres of Vincent van Gogh’s “Starry Night” and Edward Hopper’s enigmatic cityscapes. Each photograph in “Solo Symphony” captures the essence of these emotions, casting silhouettes that hint at untold stories lurking beneath the surface.
Soft pinks, reminiscent of a delicate sunrise, radiate a tender grace, whispering of vulnerability and embracing the beauty of fragility. Inspired by the ethereal beauty of Claude Monet’s water lilies and the delicate brushstrokes of Édouard Manet’s “Olympia,” these hues infuse “Solo Symphony” with a sense of poetic elegance and timeless allure.
Channeling the vibrant energy and dynamic compositions of Wassily Kandinsky, whose abstract works sought to express the spiritual essence of art through color and form, “Solo Symphony” becomes a visual symphony of self-expression. Each carefully chosen color becomes a source of strength and empowerment, echoing the sentiment of legendary makeup artist Kevyn Aucoin: “I believe all women are pretty without makeup – but with the right makeup, they can be pretty powerful.”
Against a backdrop that seamlessly intertwines urban landscapes and serene natural settings, the photoshoot becomes a visual journey through the juxtaposition of light and shadow, inspired by the chiaroscuro technique popularized by Renaissance masters like Caravaggio. The interplay of light and dark adds depth and dimension to each photograph, creating a sense of drama and intrigue that captivates the viewer’s imagination.
Delving deeper into the enchanting narrative, the model’s face becomes a living canvas, her features an intricate blend of emotions and experiences. Drawing inspiration from the surrealist works of Salvador Dalí and his exploration of the subconscious, “Solo Symphony” invites viewers to embark on a journey of self-discovery, where each color is a note in the symphony of the soul.
With meticulous attention to detail, from the precise application of makeup to the strategic choice of colors, “Solo Symphony” transforms the model’s face into a masterpiece – a true work of art. Through its nuanced storytelling and vibrant imagery, “Solo Symphony” challenges conventional beauty standards and embraces the idea that true allure is found in authenticity. In contemplating the individuality of the model, one cannot escape the profound truth embedded in the words of Coco Chanel: “Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself.”
In the tapestry of “Solo Symphony,” each color is a brushstroke, and each photograph a chapter in a larger narrative of self-expression. It is a journey into the extraordinary, inviting readers to recognize the beauty that lies within the vibrant palette of colors – a symphony of self that resonates with the powerful, harmonious notes of individuality.
Kevyn Aucoin: “I believe all women are pretty without makeup – but with the right makeup, they can be pretty powerful.”
As the story of “Solo Symphony” unfolds, it becomes evident that beauty is not merely skin deep but a reflection of one’s inner world. In the tradition of Frida Kahlo, whose self-portraits explored themes of identity, pain, and resilience, the model in “Solo Symphony” becomes a symbol of strength and self-acceptance. Each photograph captures a moment of introspection, inviting viewers to witness the model’s journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
In the spirit of Andy Warhol’s iconic pop art, which celebrated the ordinary and elevated it to the extraordinary, “Solo Symphony” embraces the beauty of everyday life. From the vibrant colors of a bustling cityscape to the serene tranquility of a sun-drenched meadow, every setting in the photoshoot becomes a work of art in its own right, reminding viewers to find beauty in the world around them.
As the final notes of the symphony fade into silence, “Solo Symphony” leaves an indelible impression on the viewer’s mind, a testament to the transformative power of self-expression. In the words of Vincent van Gogh, “I am seeking, I am striving, I am in it with all my heart.” Through its vibrant colors and emotive storytelling, “Solo Symphony” invites viewers to embark on their own journey of self-discovery, embracing the beauty of their unique palette.
In the aftermath of the photoshoot, the model emerges not only transformed but liberated, her true essence captured for eternity in the pages of “Solo Symphony.” Like the brushstrokes of a master painter, each photograph is a testament to the beauty of individuality and the power of self-expression.
As viewers reflect on the journey they have embarked upon, they are reminded of the words of Georgia O’Keeffe: “I found I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn’t say any other way – things I had no words for.” Through the expressive language of color and form, “Solo Symphony” speaks to the heart, transcending language and cultural barriers to convey a universal message of beauty and self-discovery.
Fenty Beauty.
In the end, “Solo Symphony” is not just a beauty story but a celebration of the human spirit – a testament to the resilience, creativity, and boundless potential that reside within each of us. It is a reminder that beauty is not defined by societal norms or external standards but by the courage to embrace one’s true self and share it with the world.
As viewers close the pages of “Solo Symphony,” they are left with a newfound appreciation for the transformative power of beauty and the limitless possibilities that await when one dares to express themselves authentically. It is a symphony of self-discovery, a celebration of individuality, and a tribute to the beauty that lies within us all.
Behind the captivating visuals of this production stands the visionary Director, Sarah McColgan, whose creative genius brought every frame to life with unparalleled flair and imagination. With a keen eye for detail and an innate ability to capture emotion, McColgan masterfully orchestrated each scene, weaving together a tapestry of beauty and artistry that transcends the ordinary.
Text by
Adrian Hendrix
Photography by
Sarah McColgan
Posted
June 10, 2022
Text by
Adrian Hendrix
Photography by
Sarah McColgan
August 9, 2018
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Melodic Mastermind: Aime Simone’s Dynamic Influence Reshaping the Music Scene
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July 1, 2023
Courtesy of Aime Simone.
In the dynamic world of music, fresh talents constantly emerge, captivating listeners with their unique voices and compelling stories. One such artist who has been making waves in recent years is Aime Simone
With a subtle pop sound and poignant lyrics, Aime Simone has captured the attention of music lovers worldwide, establishing himself as an emerging voice in the industry. Born with a passion for music, Aime Simone’s journey began at a young age. Growing up in a musically inclined family, he was exposed to a diverse range of genres and artists, which inspired his own musical aspirations. Drawing influences from soul, folk, and pop, Aime Simone developed a distinct sound that would later define his artistry.
Aime Simone made his mark with his debut single, “Say Yes, Say No.” in Berlin, releasing it independently in July 2020 – including the viral hit single “Shining Light” which would race to over 30M streams. Released to critical acclaim, the song showcased his powerful vocals and lyrical depth. It’s introspective nature and emotional resonance struck a chord with listeners, earning him recognition as a promising new talent. The track’s success paved the way for Aime Simone to further explore his creative potential and solidify his presence in the music scene.
As Aime Simone’s career progressed, his musical style evolved, showcasing his versatility as an artist. He began experimenting with different sounds and production techniques, fusing elements of electronic music with his soulful foundation. This fusion created a captivating blend that set him apart from his contemporaries, allowing him to carve out a unique niche within the industry. One of the defining aspects of Aime Simone’s music is his ability to convey raw emotions and thought-provoking themes through his lyrics. Whether addressing personal experiences, societal issues, or matters of the heart, his songs resonate with authenticity and vulnerability. Aime Simone’s introspective approach to songwriting has garnered praise for his ability to connect with listeners on a deep and meaningful level.
Aime Simone’s talent extends beyond the recording studio, as he delivers captivating performances that leave a lasting impact on audiences. His live shows are known for their energy, intimacy, and connection with fans. Aime Simone’s ability to create an immersive experience, combined with his magnetic stage presence, solidifies his reputation as a captivating performer. With his star on the rise, Aime Simone shows no signs of slowing down. As he continues to refine his sound and expand his musical horizons, fans eagerly anticipate what lies ahead. Aime Simone’s dedication to his craft, coupled with his unwavering authenticity, positions him as an artist to watch in the years to come.
Aime Simone’s emergence as a compelling voice in the music industry is a testament to his talent, passion, and dedication. With his soulful sound, introspective lyrics, and magnetic stage presence, he has captivated audiences and garnered acclaim from music enthusiasts worldwide. As Aime Simone’s musical journey unfolds, we can expect him to leave an indelible mark on the industry, solidifying his status as an influential and beloved artist.
Kelly: What is something about yourself that most people would be surprised to learn?
Aime: People are usually surprised when they find out that I am French. I have lost a lot of my accent and I almost exclusively speak English at home, so if you don’t know me that might surprise you.
Or maybe I don’t drink alcohol, smoke, or take drugs. That would probably surprise a lot of people.
Kelly: Can you tell us about a project you are currently working on and
what do you hope to achieve with it?
Aime: Right now I am working on the live show. It’s a continual work in progress, but right now I am making adjustments based on what I learn from the festivals that I’m doing. Every show is an opportunity to improve. I want to have a show that feels amazing to perform and to experience. I want the energy to be effortless, powerful, and cathartic. I want the show to carry you, lift you, and release something in you. So I’m working on that.
Kelly: What would be your dream project or collaboration?
Aime: I would love to make an album in a special place, like a villa in a warm climate. I would like to have the experience of completely immersing in the creative work for a while, isolated from everything else. Gathering the right instruments, tools, and people to be around and bring the right energy. That would be a luxury.
Kelly: How do you navigate the intersection of your public persona and your private life, and what boundaries do you set?
Aime: I think I’m starting to reach the point where I do have to set some kind of boundary. Before I was making the effort to address everything on a personal level, respond to all the messages, etc. I knew at some point that would become difficult. I do feel guilty but it’s just not possible for it to stay the same. So I think I have become more picky about what I put my energy into. For example, some fans give me a lot, a lot of love and I know they truly connect to me and my music. For them, I will always be there. But more and more some people just want something from me, and they don’t make the effort to know me. They just see that I have some kind of spotlight on me sometimes so they try to get something from me. I have to cut myself off from that kind of energy, it is depressing and empty.
” I just have to believe my intuition. It’s very scary in the industry where everything is built to make you believe that you can’t do it your way, that you have to do things the “right” way or you will fail, be punished, or be abandoned.”
Courtesy of Aime Simone.
Kelly: If you could have any historical figure over for dinner, who would it be and what would you serve?
Aime: I would bring back Salvador Dalí and I would serve lobster.
Kelly: If you could only have one app on your phone, what would it be?
Aime: Probably WhatsApp. Or Instagram.
Kelly: How do you balance the pressure to be perfect with the need to take
risks and try new things?
Aime: That’s a real challenge. But I don’t think about it too much. I know that the answer is always in the action. You can’t try too hard to do anything. Just do the work, don’t be lazy. Do it well, take it as far as you can. And let go if it’s time. It’s something you learn over and over again. That’s just the work of an artist I think.
Kelly: What do you believe is the biggest challenge facing your industry today, and how do you think it can be addressed?
Aime: The lack of attention span. The sheer amount of content and high stimulation of everyday life today is not conducive to people connecting to music and artists. While the advantage of today might be the huge amount of exposure, what is lacking is the ability for people to take the time to understand the depth of an artist. I think people are more likely to feel superficially stimulated by a song and enjoy it for a very short amount of time before skipping to the next thing, rather than discovering an artist and diving into their universe. I think it is still something that humans need. So there is this lack of connection, deep connection to art. I think reaching the hearts of people is more difficult today. Everyone is too busy, overstimulated, or apathetic. I think it’s a greater question of where we are headed as a culture. We are still physical beings. We have to make our relationship with technology symbiotic, not destructive. I think there is still a balance to find that will be more healthy.
Kelly: How do you maintain authenticity and stay true to yourself in an industry that can often be superficial and image-driven?
Aime: Always bring it back to the music. That is the center of it all. The songs. The melodies, the lyrics. As long as those are true then I am not worried about losing myself, that keeps me grounded in authenticity.
Kelly: Can you describe a moment when you had to take a leap of faith and
pursue a new path or direction in your career?
Aime: I’ve had to quit working with some people. That is always scary because when you work with someone for a long time you are used to that and you feel comfortable in the familiarity. But sometimes you have to change things. So for me, those kinds of moments feel like a leap of faith, and I just have to believe my intuition. It’s very scary in the industry where everything is built to make you believe that you can’t do it your way, that you have to do things the “right” way or you will fail, be punished, or be abandoned.
Kelly: How do you stay motivated and inspired to continue to create and innovate in your work, despite challenges and obstacles?
Aime: It’s all there is to do in this life for me. I don’t think I could ever give up, what would I do?
The challenges and the obstacles are part of the experience. They make me strong. I think I chose this path because I wanted to grow. Sometimes I feel like giving up. But I think that feeling is towards very specific things- giving up on certain aspects of the industry, for example. I could imagine someday choosing a more underground path. I come from that, so it would feel less challenging I think. The industry is very uncomfortable, but at the same time, I like the competition with myself in this very harsh context.
Kelly: If you could go back in time and give yourself one piece of advice at the beginning of your career, what would it be?
Aime: It’s strange because anything I can think of that I would do differently today is exactly what led me to be here now. So it’s hard to answer.
Catch Aime Simone on tour
May 12th – The Great Escape – Brighton (UK)
June 4th – We Love Green – Paris (FR)
November 6th – La Cigale – Paris (FR)
November 27th – Circolo Magnolia – Milano (IT)
Oh Glory is out now on Because Music.
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