BEAUTIFUL CHAOS
Creative Direction & Art Direction
My client sought to explore themes of identity, contrast, and transformation through an Afro-surrealist lens. The challenge was to create an editorial that merged classical ballet imagery with surrealist elements to evoke a deeper narrative on duality, self-discovery, and adaptation to adversity.
PROBLEM
Beautiful Chaos reimagines ballet by blending elegance with surreal disruption. Ornate tutus meet a world of unpredictability—emerging hands, shifting shadows, and blurred identities. As dancers adapt to disorder, grace and resilience take center stage, transforming adversity into artistry.
CREATIVE APPROACH
The rich blue and red tutus evoke regal strength, while the subjects' structured poses reflect poise and vulnerability.
WARDROBE
A stark yellow backdrop contrasts with the deep purple shadows, creating a dreamlike environment.
SET DESIGN
Strong directional lighting casts exaggerated shadows, adding depth and a theatrical effect.
LIGHTING
The emerging hands symbolize unseen forces—support, struggle, and transformation—while highlighting the dancers' resilience in life's unpredictability.
SYMBOLISM
CREDITS
Creative Direction: Michael Onipede // Photography: Hope Obadan // Styling: Kayode Adekansola // Set Design: Triciajane Asuncion // Composite Edits: Alyvia Luong // Assistance by: Amoebuh // Talent: Asia Mason, Amber Mason // Hands: Teniola Olawale