Samantha Gradoville by Paul Maffi for Transmission No.2

Photographer: Paul Maffi. Model(s): Samantha Gradoville. Stylist: Rich Aybar. Makeup: Asami Taguchi. Hair: Leonardo Manetti.

Posted Oct 15, 2013

Daring to divulge her darker side, Samantha Gradoville dances in diaphanous designs in this enigmatic editorial by Paul Maffi for Transmission No.2, The Transparency Issue. Exploring the art of openness she sheds her metaphorical skin as she slowly makes her way though a series of see-through styles artfully ensembled by Rich Aybar. It’s all in the eyes, she may lure us in with her other-worldly body but she breaks us with her penetrating stare. Bare faced and beautiful (makeup artist) Asami Taguch uses a masterful mix of minimal makeup and dramatic expressionism to evoke a sense of empowered enlightenment. By drawing a dark mask directly on her face she makes a strong statement that one cannot be separated from one’s desires. I am what I desire and what I am is ever-changing. A transfer of emotions, in the end, true transparency isn’t about what you’re willing to expose it’s about what you’re willing to share. By allowing your inner truth to find it’s way to the surface you systematically destroy the walls of denial making way for your real self to shine through. Exuding an air of introspection Gradoville digs deep delivering a though-provoking piece of performance art.