As a young boy, I never gravitated toward toy guns, tractors, or race cars. My mom, understanding and embracing my journey of self-discovery and emerging sexuality, gifted me her treasured childhood collection of Barbies and Barbie accessories. Packed into a 20-gallon plastic box, the collection carried a distinct scent—a mix of nostalgia and a sharp, perfume-like aroma that reminded me of my grandmother. That unforgettable smell became part of the magic. My mom knew I’d cherish these Barbies, and she was right—they became my everything.

Years later, during an emotional crisis, I sought solace in creativity and rediscovered that same box of Barbies. It became my outlet, my muse.

This photography series explores my deep fascination with color, light, and shadow, reflecting how they interplay with emotional states. At its core, the work critiques the unrealistic and often damaging representations of femininity perpetuated by Barbie’s image while celebrating the surreal beauty of childhood imagination.

My goal is to transport viewers into a dreamlike world inspired by their inner child. As we grow older, we often leave behind the curiosity, wonder, and innocence that defined our youth. This series invites us to deliberately reconnect with those feelings—to revisit the toys and collections that once sparked joy and imagination, tucked away in boxes, waiting to be rediscovered.

This series is a love letter to the childlike spirit we too often abandon, encouraging viewers to embrace the playful, curious, and wonder-filled parts of themselves once again.

My self-published book "Barbie Dreams", an extension of the series, is available for purchase here: store