Isabelle Arrell - BA (Hons) Photography
The Madonna, The Witch and The Whore
My recent work explores folklore, legend, and the history of place throughout British landscapes. As the project developed, I became interested in the attitudes towards women throughout history, specifically in folklore and fairy tales. ‘The Madonna, The Witch and The Whore’ refers to these women from a patriarchal perspective, referencing ideology surrounding 'The Madonna-Whore Complex'. My process involves extensive research into the stories, as well as the places. I then immerses myself into the scenery, using the act of role-play to create my own versions of the characters. This idea of ‘role-play/ dress-up’ creates a sense of nostalgia, as the models put on their ‘costumes’, embrace their landscape and become part of the story. They embody these women and their history, creating powerful imagery, embedded with storytelling.
