I Am Woman is a celebration of the strength and energy of women through the photography of Michael Shrapnel, featuring Danny Choo’s Smart Dolls experiencing the grandeur and elegance of Stamford Grand Adelaide.
“One of the aims of my photography is to promote a sense of calm and serenity by creating graceful and elegant photos that have an enchanting and fairy tale-like feeling about them,” photographer Michael Shrapnel says.
“I enjoy combining a variety of photographic genres such as architectural, fashion and doll photography in an attempt to capture the beauty and character of Adelaide's many iconic locations.”
Smart Dolls were created by Danny Choo, the son of fashion designer Jimmy Choo. Handcrafted in Tokyo, Smart Dolls are the 60cm tall, articulated fashion doll that have captured the hearts and imaginations of creators around the world, including Michael.
“After discovering Fashion Doll Photography in 2019, I found out how beneficial photography could be to a person’s mental health first-hand when I started photographing Smart Dolls around Adelaide,” Michael says. “I found that simply going for a walk and attempting to capture the beauty of Adelaide’s many iconic landmarks with the Smart Dolls was very challenging, but also rewarding and enjoyable. I firmly believe that finding a way to explore a person’s creativity is vital to mental well-being and health.”
In I Am Woman, Michael brings the Smart Dolls to life against the majestic backdrop of Stamford Grand Adelaide. One of the Smart Dolls will also be sporting an outfit designed by Danny Choo specifically for the exhibition.
As a photographer, Michael enjoys photographing the various adventures of Smart Dolls in real-world environments.
“It has been such a privilege and wondrous experience photographing the Smart Dolls at the magnificent Stamford Grand Adelaide.”
I Am Woman is on at Stamford Grand Adelaide from 3 March-3 April.
