What is beauty? In the Winter issue of IMAGE Magazine, on sale now, creative director Lawson Mpame and director Itchey Drew capture a diverse and unique collective whose lives and industries have been individually shaped by perceptions of beauty, including ballet dancer Emer Lenihan, who shares how her journey with beauty has changed and evolved her perspective and what beauty means to her.
Creative Director’s Notes
The Price Of Beauty
“The ballerina is the personification of beauty. She’s the embodiment of beauty according to society and the standard that many women out there can never ever achieve. They put their bodies put through a gruelling process from years of seeking perfection which is just unattainable and a grave price that has to be paid to achieve this level of perfectionism.” – Lawson Mpame and Itchey Drew
Where do you see or find beauty in your life?
For me I find beauty in dancing and that people that I surround myself with… My family and friends! I see beauty in choreography and the way that lets people express themselves.
What does the word “beauty” mean to you?
The word beauty means the way you deal with and treat situations and people. Beauty is the choice to make others happy and feel worthy.
What has been your personal journey with your own beauty?
With the stress of image in the dance world I have found physical beauty hard to find in myself, however, I have learnt to not let other people’s views of me define me and continue to love what I do.
Did anything change about your approach to beauty while you were on this project?
My approach to beauty did change with this project as I was surrounded by people with such kindness in making me and all of us involved feel comfortable and at home.
What is your favourite thing about yourself?
My favourite thing about myself is my dancing, it allows me to express how I feel without the need to use words. It is such a beautiful and physical art form that allows anyone to express themselves.
Is there anything you wish you could tell your younger self?
I would definitely tell my younger self to be more confident. In ability, in dancing, in friendships and all relationships. I would tell myself to always stand up for what I believe in and always chase my dreams because family and friends will always be on your side.
What’s the one thing you find very beautiful or attractive in others?
The thing I find attractive and beautiful in people is how they treat others, that they are able to stand firm in what they believe in while still respecting those around them. People with big hearts always go far!
What do you love about yourself?
I think my superpower is being able to work hard and still have time for my family. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their support. I like that I’m stubborn in certain aspects of my life and also understanding.
Creative direction Lawson Mpame. Director Itchey Drew. Photography by Wiktoria Bialas and Mark Sosiak. Art Director: Lawson Mpame, Director of photography: Itchey Drew. Lighting: Mark Sosiak, lighting assistants: Denise Kavunov and Fabiola Melo. Stylist: Lorna Spaine. Hair: Maria Whiting. Make-up: Jessy Malone. Choreographer: Jessie Thompson. Runner: Max Korol. Location: D-Light Studios. Set: Ten Four and We Are Platinum. Clothing: French Connection and Primark. Special thanks to Camerakit.ie.
IMAGE Winter 2023
The Winter issue of IMAGE is here, and festive sparkles are on our mind, from our fashion shoot full of party-ready pieces to the home of jeweller Chupi Sweetman-Durney which is full of glinting gold. Plus, we learn how to make the most of festive leftovers, and are planning a winter break to remember. Plus: * Big knits * Cool corduroy * In studio with Pearl Reddington * Audrey Hepburn’s Irish connections * Confidence at work * A Kilimanjaro adventure * Beauty gifts to give yourself * Practical magic * A ski retreat with a difference * Weekend escapes * and so much more…
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