As a young boy, I never wanted to play with guns, toy tractors, or race cars. My mom understood and accepted my journey of self-discovery, embracing my emerging sexuality wholeheartedly.

She gifted me her cherished collection of Barbies and Barbie paraphernalia, amassed throughout her own childhood. It all came in a 20-gallon plastic box, which emitted a distinct smell when opened, evoking the nostalgic, pungent scent reminiscent of my grandmother’s perfume. That unforgettable aroma became part of the allure. 

Somehow, my mom knew I would cherish these Barbies. She was right—they became my everything.

Years later, in the midst of an emotional crisis, I sought solace in a creative project to distract me from my turmoil. I turned to that same box of Barbies.

These photographs reflect my fascination with color, light, and shadow, exploring how they interplay with the emotional landscape. This series critically examines the unrealistic, unhealthy, and often insulting representations of female appearance.

My goal is to transport the viewer into a surreal reality inspired by their inner child. As we transition from carefree children to responsible adults, we often abandon the spirit of our youth—the curiosity, the desire to play, and the sense of wonder and innocence. It is a deliberate choice we must make as adults to reconnect with those feelings.

In still-life photography, the careful selection and placement of props provide context and narrative. Our childhood fascination with toys and collections, often stored away, emerges from the closet in these photos, inviting viewers to revisit their own lost sense of wonder.