Shannon Dermody Photographs Reinterpreted Disney Characters
Mishal Omar — May 6, 2017 — Pop Culture
References: shannondermodyphotography & boredpanda
Shannon Dermody is a Philadelphia-based photographer who uses her talent to make a point about many of the social issues that exist in the world today.
In the series, Shannon Dermody photographs models who are dressed up as well-known Disney princesses. Rather than capturing the models in pristine photos, the photographer instead chooses to depict the characters in a way that makes the viewer reflect on world issues. One example in the series includes an image of Belle standing in front of the Beast with scars on her body – portraying domestic abuse. Another poignant example reveals Princess Tiana shot and bleeding on the ground while a police officer checks her pulse – a powerful image depicting police brutality in America.
The use of Disney Princesses was intentional in the series, as in their traditional form they are portrayed as attractive, perfect and pristine – a characterization that sugar coats the harsh realities of life that many women must face – drug addiction, assault, mental illness and institutionalized racism.
In the series, Shannon Dermody photographs models who are dressed up as well-known Disney princesses. Rather than capturing the models in pristine photos, the photographer instead chooses to depict the characters in a way that makes the viewer reflect on world issues. One example in the series includes an image of Belle standing in front of the Beast with scars on her body – portraying domestic abuse. Another poignant example reveals Princess Tiana shot and bleeding on the ground while a police officer checks her pulse – a powerful image depicting police brutality in America.
The use of Disney Princesses was intentional in the series, as in their traditional form they are portrayed as attractive, perfect and pristine – a characterization that sugar coats the harsh realities of life that many women must face – drug addiction, assault, mental illness and institutionalized racism.
Trend Themes
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Social Issue Portrayal Photography — There is an opportunity for photographers to create impactful images that raise awareness about social issues using reinterpreted Disney characters as their subjects.
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Criticism of Traditional Character Portrayals — There is an opportunity for media companies to create new characters that actively combat or raise awareness for social issues instead of portraying perfection and innocence.
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Dramatic Reinterpretation of Familiar Characters — There is an opportunity for creators to reinvent beloved characters from popular media to reflect real-world issues and promote social awareness.
Industry Implications
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Photography — Photographers can utilize this trend and incorporate impactful socio-political themes to bring awareness and create meaningful photographs.
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Media and Entertainment — Media companies could create new characters for their audience, heroes that actively combat or raise awareness for social issues instead of portraying perfection and innocence.
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Advertising — Advertisers can incorporate these socio-political themes into their messaging and promote awareness towards societal issues instead of portraying products through unrealistic and perfect characters.
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