The Test Mannequin

Currently developing imagery for my upcoming art book BIOPHILIAC: Resisting the Rabbit Hole, these test images were created using non-extractive materials sourced from my garden and guided by principles of low-impact storytelling.

Before photographing human subjects using my new experimental protocols, a Test Mannequin Series has naturally begun to take shape. I often share these early images with collaborators—reactions range from “I love your creepy mannequins” to an instinctive pullback in discomfort. Either way, they offer a preview of the emotional tension and visual experimentation I’m exploring. As this series evolves, each mannequin image will eventually link to the completed shoot it inspired. If one of them draws you in—click through to see how the concept unfolds with a human subject. Some connections are already live, others are still in progress as the full BIOPHILIAC: Resisting the Rabbit Hole of Consumption series continues to take shape.

Light Testing for “Through Fire I Rise”

Test Mannequin Seed in Transit

Light Test Structural Fashion from a Mexican Palm Tree frawns

Currently, I am exploring the innovative worlds of Iris Van Herpen and Elizaveta Porodina. The image above is directly inspired by Van Herpen’s ability to infuse her designs with organic forms and futuristic aesthetics. To achieve this, I incorporated elements from my Mexican palm tree into the mannequin’s attire. Utilizing Man Ray's Sabattier effect, I aimed to enhance the surreal quality. Porodina’s influence of dramatic lighting and bold contrasts, contribute to the overall mood and depth of the image.

Light Test Hildegard Mannequin 1

Light Test Hildegard Mannequin 2

The Test Mannequin as Hildegard

Test Mannequin with Dried Taro Leaf