‘Presenting Vana A’ at Metart

Vana A ‘Presenting‘ by Higinio Domingo

Met Art members are accustomed to a steady diet of fresh, newly discovered talent. New models are added to the site with almost metronomic regularity, and this series marks the arrival of a green-eyed Estonian with considerable charm and potential. As an added bonus, the set is also the first Met Art contribution by a new artist, so we are blessed with two “news” at once.

Set off by subtly dramatic make-up, Vana A’s eyes are exceptionally pretty. And while she presents a somewhat restrained, somewhat cool expression for much of the series, when she allows her spontaneity to shine forth those green eyes glitter with joy and delight. Her pale, creamy complexion is set off nicely by a lush head of thick, dark hair, and her body is an appealing combination of plush and delicate elements. Vana A isn’t inhibited in the least, and she delivers a nice variety of interesting poses. A roundly pleasing premiere performance.

And I think the same can be said for photographer Higinio Domingo‘s debut, as well. The lighting is soft, neutral, and natural. And the set design, particularly his choice of colors, is spare and effective yet possessing a certain depth and richness. The white walls are nicely set off by the black frame around a mirror and the black chandelier reflected in it. And the dark upholstery of the furniture provides a flattering backdrop to his model’s pale complexion. It’s a versatile set, as well. In much of the series the white walls figure prominently, to fine effect. But when he composes his frame in such a way as to omit the walls entirely, as he does in #047, he achieves an entirely different look. Well done.

“Presenting” Vana A isn’t without flaws, but its strengths are such that what flaws it does contain are easy to forgive. #067 is a haunting and evocative close headshot. I love the pose and Vana’s beautiful facial expression (as well as the color and strong horizontal elements of Domingo’s composition) in #001. The high, bird’s eye angle in #042 is a pleasant and dramatic surprise. #066 is a subtly seductive headshot. There’s something natural, casual (and explicit) in #080, enhanced by the artist’s confident and creative framing. After this debut, I look forward to more from both of these newcomers.