Affa Osman, Casting, London

About

This striking monochrome studio portrait features two women posed closely together against a solid black background. The older woman stands prominently in the foreground, wearing a rigid, bulbous sculptural red garment and an ornate metal torque necklace with pendant details, accompanied by an intricate headpiece. Her arms extend outwards, adorned with long, stylized metallic or painted nail extensions. A second woman peeks from behind her shoulder, showcasing bold facial and body paint markings on her arms and torso, along with an elaborate crown-like headpiece. The lighting is high-contrast, emphasizing the sharp textures of the garments, headpieces, and skin against the dark backdrop. The composition is square and heavily stylized, with casting directed by Affa Osman.