“Look the ugly duckling, it talks back”

Abuses can happen in all communities and settings, but when they arise from your own circle, which is already somewhat marginalized by society, what do you do? 

Growing up in a community is a unique experience that creates an unexplainable bond that goes beyond the rational. It extends the definition of a family, broader than the one of blood. However, like any other family, a community brings both positive and negative experiences. As I grew up in one, I deeply investigated this topic during my bachelor years at the Willem de Kooning Academy.

This project is dedicated to bringing to light the experiences of individuals who do not conform to social expectations, including marginalization, social exclusion, challenges in identity development, and trauma. Along with writer Emma Nagelmackers, we achieved this by sharing the stories of four individuals from our community, with each representing different themes: Emma’s experience with hyper sexualization, Michella’s journey with ethnic diversity, Leah’s story related to fashion and beauty standards, and Raphael’s struggle with masculinity and forced coming-out. Together, their stories bring attention to various unspoken issues within the community and society at large. “Look the ugly duckling it talks back” is a book dedicated to all who have felt like they didn’t belong.

A sneak peek inside my book

Credits

This project was conceptualized by Manon Vogel as part of her graduation project at the Willem de Kooning Academy in Advertising & Beyond. It has been developed in collaboration with Emma Nagelmackers. This partnership and friendship has been truly invaluable for the sake of this project. 

Art direction and Photography : Manon Vogel, Writings : Emma Nagelmackers, Graphic design : Jessie Vray

Box Leah

Art direction – Photography – Set design : Manon Vogel, Make-up artist : Donya Lenaerts, Styling : Edgar Van den Heede, Gloves : Aiden Abnet, Hair : Manon Vogel & Emma Nagelmackers, Model : Leah 

Box Emma

Art direction – Photography – Set design : Manon Vogel Assisted by : Emma Nagelmackers & Mateusz Wisniewski, Model : Emma Nagelmackers

Box Raphael

Art direction – Photography – Set design : Manon Vogel Assisted by : Emma Nagelmackers, Make-up artist & hair : Donya Lenaerts, Styling : Edgar Van den Heede, Model : Raphaël

Box Michella

Art direction – Photography – Set design : Manon Vogel Assisted by : Emma Nagelmackers, Make-up artist : Donya Lenaerts, Hair artist (wig) : Axelle Husikama, Styling : Edgar Van den Heede, Model : Michella

My instagram : @manondanielle_