The Russian Doll is Kristel Trow’s most intimate work to date, a series of new black and white photographic portraits of women who have experienced adversity in their lives.
Inspired by the wartime photographers who carried their own portable darkrooms, the photographs have been developed in a specially designed camera, which sits in the belly of a Russian doll.
Kristel has collaborated with women for this series of portraits which captures their intimate stories. Kristel has been working in close collaboration with women all over the country, each place has been chosen carefully with each collaborator, as a place that means something to each of these women.
Multi award-winning writer and filmmaker, Will Millard, has also documented Kristel Trow’s journey to creating the work.
In this film we see model Beth Matthews on location at Langland Bay, Swansea as she prepares for her portrait.
Artist, Kristel Trow said, “Langland Bay, a place where Beth took her first professional photoshoot as a model and her journey in the fashion industry began. Beth is following her dreams regardless of society’s labels and sometimes perceptions of Down Syndrome.”
“She has posed for Cosmopolitan, was invited to walk the carpet at the Venice Film Festival amongst many other wonderful achievements. Her mother Fiona said Beth’s growing confidence has helped her find her own identity.”
“Keep doing what you love regardless of any perceived difficulty or labels. A powerful and important message for us all.”
The Russian Doll, by Kristel Trow is on now until 19 May, 2024.
Filmed and produced by Will Millard
Edit produced by Nathan Mackintosh
Brangwyn’s British Empire Panels
