The Oriental Paradise: A Fashion Editorial Confronting Postcolonial Aesthetics
KALTBLUT magazine has unveiled a unique editorial named 'The Oriental Paradise,' which critically examines how postcolonial aesthetics are frequently simplified into marketable symbols of diversity, trauma, and exoticism within visual culture. This project unfolds through three thematic looks: 'Venus of the East,' 'Paradise Lost,' and 'Sibuxiang,' illustrating a transformation from an objectified figure to a partially deconstructed entity, ultimately evolving into a xenobiological form that challenges fixed identities. By employing material experimentation and performative styling, it offers a counter-narrative to Western-centric visual norms, viewing the body as both a medium and an archive of power and desire. Kei (@dvil.in.exile) directed and photographed the project, with contributions from Cai (@ivenhis), Namevarg (@namevarg.ltd), Irini (@knowmysunshine), and model Meng Duan from L'Or Management (@meng_damn @lor.management). All outfits were custom-designed by Namevarg. The editorial is available on KALTBLUT's website at https://www.kaltblut-magazine.com/the-oriental-paradise.
Key facts
- The editorial is titled 'The Oriental Paradise' and is exclusive to KALTBLUT magazine.
- It responds to the absorption of postcolonial aesthetics as consumable symbols of diversity, trauma, and exoticism.
- The work features three narrative looks: Venus of the East, Paradise Lost, and Sibuxiang.
- The project stages a transformation of the body from exoticized to deconstructed to xenobiological.
- Creative direction and photography by Kei (@dvil.in.exile).
- Producer: Cai (@ivenhis); Styling: Namevarg (@namevarg.ltd); Hair and makeup: Irini (@knowmysunshine).
- Model: Meng Duan, signed at L'Or Management.
- All garments are custom-made by Namevarg.
Entities
Artists
- Kei
- Cai
- Namevarg
- Irini
- Meng Duan
Institutions
- KALTBLUT
- L'Or Management