The Way You Are - Boudoir & Portrait Photography Exhibition #bodyconfidence

The Way You Are Boudoir & Portrait Photography Exhibition will now be open to the public on the 27 – 28 October 2017 at the 5th Base Gallery in the vibrant Brick Lane area. This unique exhibition is two-fold. First, it’s an artistic display of boudoir and portrait photography. Second, and at its heart, it is a celebration of the female body in all its real glory – curves, wrinkles, stretch marks and all. It is about real women and their experiences in preparing for, and going through their The Way You Are experience. The aptly titled exhibition 'Gallery of Stories’ is just that. An exploration of the representation of one's self – just the way you are. This is real life #bodyconfidence on show for all to see.

At the Launch Party on Friday 27 October, seasoned photographer, Julian Knopf of Gander Photography, will give a talk on his own journey of discovery through developing this special art form, from taking stunning portrait images that capture the essence of an individual, to the more playful and fun side of boudoir photography which he has developed along with his clients’ desires to explore their own boundaries.

One of the most inspiring stories, is of Claire* who is bravely open about her previous abusive relationship and why it was important for her to do this photography. Extracts from her Story include “For me, The Way You Are experience is like an act of taking back what was taken from me. When you are in an abusive relationship you lose control. They make you feel crazy, worthless, ugly – you’re trapped and it’s the most horrible feeling. So, to be able to come out of that, to do something like this and to have these amazing photos – or art – on display, where people are liking and commenting on your photos, both men and women and complete strangers who don’t have to be nice – it’s a great feeling!”.

Knopf comments “In today's world of the perfectly posed selfie and airbrushed magazine models, there is so much pressure to confirm – The Way You Are challenges this”. Each shoot is a true journey of discovery for both the model and photographer.

Tickets for the exhibition launch party on Friday 27 October can be purchased from Eventbrite. Tickets are £15 inclusive of gallery entry, sparkling wine reception, canapés and goodie bags. The exhibition is open to the public on Saturday 28 October. The exhibition is strictly over 18’s only.