alexander khokhlov + veronica ershova trick the eye with body painted illusions

alexander khokhlov + veronica ershova trick the eye with body painted illusions
(above) newton’s cradle
all images courtesy of alexander khokhlov and veronica ershova

moscow-based photographers and makeup stylists alexander khokhlov and veronica ershova have collaborated on a collection of body artworks based on symbolism, minimalism and optical illusion. the series comprises images of meticulously painted female faces and bodies that interact with surrounding props, forcing an alternate perspective that tricks the eye. 

‘eggz’ (flower decorations by mikhail kravchenko)

floral and botanical decoration, designed by mikhail kravchenko, expand the scenes, adding a textured and layered effect that connects to the composition as a whole. examples include an orange-painted circle on the face of a female model who — as she lies on a formation of white flowers — resembles a sunny side up egg;  two models wear circular petal headbands, which transform the image of their painted faces into ‘quotation marks’; and a pair of females whose illustrated portraits make them appear as if they are the rewind reels of a VHS tape. 

‘quotes’ (flower decorations by mikhail kravchenko)

‘vision’

‘rewind’