Barbara D: ‘Chisel‘ by Alex Sironi
My attraction to and enthusiasm for this model was almost instantaneous. And it wasn’t a fluke, either — all three Barbara D sets I’ve reviewed (here, here, and here) are fine showcases for her physical beauty and her appealing personality. One of the things I find most charming about this shapely blonde is that she projects her warmth and innocence in such a natural, unaffected way. A girl this pretty could easily be excused for putting on airs, assuming an attitude, or becoming full of herself. But not Barbara D — she seems completely down to earth and entirely approachable, two factors that only add to her allure.
In the past I’ve made note of minor flaws in Barbara’s presentation, but over the course of 20 galleries she’s gained poise and polish. In “Chisel” she delivers some sophisticated, creative postures that fit right in with more natural poses. I find it interesting that Barbara D’s entire MetArt portfolio was shot by a single photographer, Alex Sironi. The two clearly work well together, and the artist deserves credit for coming up with so many distinct ways to shoot the same model.
I’m not certain, however, that “Chisel” is among the very best sets this pairing has produced. The set design is simple, a Sironi signature. Barbara stands (or sprawls) on a fur rug in front of a black and white room divider. I have two minor nits to pick with this arrangement. The screen has strong vertical and horizontal elements that beg for — or at least suggest — an upright, level approach to composition. Yet Sironi lets his camera do a bit too much tilting for my tastes. And that animal pelt is visually and tactilely interesting, but it’s also shedding, and in many shots stray hairs can be seen on the model’s otherwise immaculate body. As I said, minor nits.
Barbara D is so warm and at ease that she makes even the most explicit shots — and there are many to be found here — seem cute rather than lewd. And Sironi, true to form, includes thoughtful detail shots, along with full-length figure studies. Favorites? #048 is a stylish and explicit reclining pose. #054 is a demure and delicious kneeling shot that perfectly captures Barbara’s splendid bust. #126 and #127, two variations on the same pose, are delightfully different and undeniably beautiful, as is #129 in which an unexpected ray of light falls across her face highlighting her eyes. Barbara D in “Chisel” charms me once more.
