The Gift
‘The Gift’ explores the profound meanings hidden within a simple gesture—giving. Brought to life by Lith Li and Miss Patricia, the striking visuals embody themes of liberation, self-expression and societal expectations. It invites us to question: What truly matters in a gift? The photo series was beautifully captured by photographer Massimiliano Emme, adding depth to its powerful narrative.
Photography Massimiliano Emme Models Lith Li and Miss Patricia
Lith Li
What was the inspiration for the shoot?
We wanted to represent the message inside a gift for these dates in December and January. How innocence disappears, persists or returns, depending on the invisible meanings behind a gift, where it can be something material or non-material.
At this time of the year, many gifts arrive, but what is important in them? Is it what you expected? Is it important that it has a specific brand...? that it is something simple? Or is the importance in who gives it to you and the company? With this project we asked ourselves all these questions and came up with something to unwrap.
How did you approach the styling and creative direction for the shoot?
We thought of feeling wrapped, (alluding to the message that surrounds us in this session) in a striking and attractive fabric as if it were our wrapping, as is the dazzling latex with the brands Libidex and BlackStyle Latex; to reflect at the same time the innocence, the demonisation of women and the interests of adults playing when they lose that magic between the mask and unmasking the identity.
Comparing human consumerism with the values of the Self.
Women have always been considered valuable according to what we wear, how we wear our clothes and how we act with someone based on the corrections of a patriarchal and capitalist system. But it's time to show our values and to speak out in freedom. Through art, -through the body.
I called my friends at David's Road Store and they presented me with an ideal piece for the idea we had with the nude sculpted in white by the incredible J Phoenix London with their Corset wearable art, which more than a restriction, simulates a naked body, where several messages can be interpreted.
The creative direction of the chosen colours was to create a dualism between Christmas colours and fetishism. Red, white and black. Recreating both airs, as we wanted to talk about power, roles, what is inside and the importance of our actions.
Miss Patricia
Encounter
“I see ‘The Gift’ as a story of freedom, of liberation of the person and of playful trust in the senses – something that adults often forget over time because they have to deal with the rules of society.”
Massimiliano Emme
The gift
Understanding
Did you know Patricia before or did you meet at the shoot for the first time?
Let me explain how naturalness works; Miss Patricia and I met at a party and because we laughed so much we decided to meet for dinner that same week. We decided to do something creative together and we've been friends ever since. We have very similar tastes in music, fetishism and fashion, so we always like to go somewhere with nice interiors and talk about the things we like... and the things we don't like too.
Is this your first project with Massimiliano Emme?
This is our fourth project. Massimiliano Emme, is a professional photographer in fashion, and music and specialist in old developing cameras. I remember the first session in his studio where he showed me how the Polaroid 8x10 works and I fell in love with the essence. You never know what the final result will be like. And waiting for it is always a surprise. Those feelings are the best!
Reflection
“With a gift, I usually don’t expect anything specific. A gift can be a physical item or a connection. Each can be a unique experience. The feeling of connection would be the most meaningful gift for me. Sharing experiences with like-minded individuals is the greatest gift.”
Miss Patricia
Emotions
Unmask
Why did you choose an apple as a symbol of liberation from societal social constructs?
The apple is a clear symbol in my creations. For me it represents sisterhood, sorority, empathy and freedom. Dismantling the clear examples of a patriarchal and reifying Genesis of this system. In this project we intend to expand its meaning in the act of giving it to another woman. And how the other person, welcoming the message, feels willing to break with social impositions, and return to that magical innocence of something disinterested, natural and totally free that she shares with another person who understands her.
Because without sharing it, and without a connection it would be meaningless. There needs to be reciprocity between people. With basic values and principles; knowing what you like, and what you don't like... Like a Christmas present made from the heart.
Looking ahead, what are your plans for 2025?
Keep creating with interesting souls, working on my next music vinyl, a book to go with it, and keep immersing myself in events without forgetting the magic, and the values that make us connect as humans to make this world better and more interesting every day!
The gift (Polaroid 8x10)
Team credits
Models: Lith Li and Miss Patricia
Photographer Massimiliano Emme
Fashion Designers J Phoenix London and David's Road
Latex by Libidex, Blackstyle and Dayne Henderson
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