London-based photographer Polly Penrose chronicled the changes she experienced in her body over the course of seven years with her nude self-portrait series 'Body of Work.'
Beyond the changing landscape of her own body, Penrose was interested in how the body relates to the space around it. Each image features Penrose attempting to 'fit' into a space.
Penrose enters each location free of preconceived ideas of what she will do within it. She continually challenges herself to hold poses that are difficult and perhaps unnatural. The poses mirror Penrose's emotional state at the time of the photo: for instance, she curls into a ball of excitement to absorb the shock of her recent engagement in one shot; in another, she leans forward with a sense of peaceful expectation as she awaits the arrival for her first child; and, two months later, she sprawls out, an exhausted new mother.
Narrative Nude Portraits
Polly Penrose Takes Nude Self-Portraits Over the Course of Several Years
Trend Themes
1. Body Image Self-exploration - Photographers can explore body image and self-acceptance through a series of self-portraits over time.
2. Emotional Photography - Photographers can use physical poses to express their emotional states during periods of change or transition.
3. Body-space Relationship Photography - Photographers can capture the relationship between the human body and the space around it using physical poses and body language.
Industry Implications
1. Photography - Photographers can use this trend to create unique and compelling photography series showcasing the relationship between the human body and space.
2. Personal Development - Personal development coaches can use this trend to encourage self-acceptance and explore body image issues through a creative medium.
3. Art Therapy - Art therapists can utilize this trend as a way for clients to express emotions and explore body image issues through visual art.