My Hollywood
As a part of a Studio Art minor, Maddy completed a senior thesis that culminates the knowledge and creativity she has developed through her minor at Boston College.
Old Hollywood Glamour portraits originated in the early 20th century and were seen as promotional to the classic hollywood cinema. The period of glamor would not have the importance it does today without this style of photography. The portraits, with decisive lighting and intentful camera angles to adorn the stars, played a large role in giving the figures we recognize today their significance. My project is largely inspired by George Hurrell, a prominent photographer of the period who transformed ordinary people into stars such as Marilyn Monroe and Marlon Brando. Shooting in digital, I have taken portraits of ten of my closest friends and family. I committed multiple hours to shoot the stars of my life, planning their wardrobe and set, and posing them in high contrast and seductive settings. My Hollywood is the place to appreciate the significant figures in my life in the same light that was shone on the momentous figures of Hollywood from 1910-1970 by giving them the same space to be idolized and appreciated.