The USA is a country often obsessed with models and beauty pageants. The States also features plenty of abandoned towns and derelict buildings. Bearing this in mind, the Formentos – a husband and wife photography team – went on a cross-country road trip merging the two subjects together.
This juxtaposition may seem visually jarring but the the photographers aim to reflect on the vulnerability of their models in their surroundings. Though they may appear more at home on a catwalk, these environments might be a truer reflection of their inner selves.
The photos are also a reflection on the faltering economy and how talented individuals are often stuck in a town where work has dried up and the people have fled.
On top of this deeper message, the pictures are also aesthetically striking — the models are often lit up while the background fades into darkness. The women who have been photographed were all at a crossroads in their lives and the varying poses, from confidence to timidity, reflect either the optimism or uncertainty they're feeling at that moment.
Circumstance: American on Bruised Knees — Photographs by Formento + Formento is on display at the Society Club Soho, 12 Ingestre Place, W1F 0JF until 30 October. Admission is free.
