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“Servants of the Realm”: A Wes Anderson-inspired Editorial Exploration of Christmas Wealth Divides

by Emily Duff

Step into the world of magawtf, a stylist and art director with a knowledge of fashion and an eye for detail. 

Seamlessly blending engineering precision and the boundless creativity of the fashion world, the latest editorial, titled "Servants of the Realm," stands as a "Christmas Holiday Special," marking the second chapter in magawtf’s "The Realm" photo series.



As a recent engineering graduate, magawtf brings a unique combination of precision and fashion flair to "Servants of the Realm," where meticulous attention to detail intertwines with a thought-provoking exploration of societal constructs. 


This editorial invites you to unravel the complexities of Christmas wealth divides through the lens of Wes Anderson-inspired aesthetics.



In a conversation with magawtf, they shared insights into the shoots creation, adding, “This editorial constitutes the second chapter within the ‘The Realm’ photo series, released as a festive tribute to the Christmas holiday season, evident in its thematic red hues. 


In alignment with the vibrant palette inspired by Wes Anderson evident in the preceding installment, titled 'Housewives of the Realm,' this edition seeks to elucidate the profound influence of wealth as the ultimate instrument of power.



Embracing a narrative that underscores the omnipotent nature of money, the editorial endeavors to exemplify the dynamic where affluence begets servitude. 


The visual narrative, characterized by a poignant portrayal of barefoot children bound in bondage to an elderly figure perennially ensconced in opulence, offers a compelling reflection on the socio-economic disparities witnessed during my formative years.



This photographic series serves as a poignant tableau depicting the stark realities encountered while growing up, emphasizing the disparate treatment of the economically marginalized in contrast to those elevated to higher societal echelons. 


The evocative imagery captures the essence of my. lived experiences, offering a profound commentary on the societal constructs perpetuated by economic disparities.”



Credits:


Art Director - magawtf 

Stylist - magawtf 

Casting - magawtf 

Photographer - farid 

Colourist - abi 

Retouches - abi 

Models - shiny, ombusha, wali, afred, samuel, raymond, muazu, aklo, monday, jacob, idris, saleh, goodluck, churi, sakungu & oshila

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