Stills of Play
by Emma Vitallo
In "Stills of Play," I photographed a dollhouse constructed by my grandfather to create a rich, multi-layered experience that resonates with themes of memory, heritage, and self-discovery. The dollhouse creates a dynamic stage where toy horses and unicorns symbolize childhood memories and familial bonds. I intentionally used colorful and theatrical elements to evoke a sense of nostalgia and childlike wonder.
This project brings the toy horses and unicorns to life, creating a whimsical yet poignant commentary on the nature of memory and the passage of time. The images invite the audience to reflect on their own familial legacies and the ways in which personal history shapes identity. By blending personal history with imaginative elements, I aim to create a space where viewers can connect with their own stories and the broader human experience.
ABOUT THE CREATOR
Emma Jo Vitallo is a photographic artist exploring identity and connection through collaborative dynamics. They are pursuing an MFA in Photography with an Art History certificate at Northern Illinois University. Vitallo's work has been exhibited at the GETXOPhoto Festival in Spain, RIT City Art Space in Rochester, and online at Lenscratch and the Texas Photographic Society. They also collaboratively hold a Guinness World Record for the World’s Largest Paper Snowflake.
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