Liberal use of cotton candy might be the antithesis of January health-kick diets, but that’s precisely what French artist Isabelle Chapuis has used to create a beautiful series of photographs, titled Barbapapa, depicting models wearing the sweet treat as pink jackets, coats, belt and even gravity-defying hair styles. Though the childish confection is aptly paired with child models, the portraits sidestep any connotations of twee cuteness with a distinctly dark, moody vibe; a clever combination of shadow and a dark background creates drama, while clothes are kept tough in pieces like black leather biker vests and punkish studded jackets. Polished creepers and gothic jewelry also lend a sophisticated feel; slightly bizarre the concept may be, but the contrast of fluffy sweetness and rock ‘n’ roll edge works. Who would have thought that cotton candy could be both tasty and fashionable? Suddenly, salads aren’t looking all that appetizing…
Barbapapa is currently on display at the Bibliothèque Nationale de France, until February 17.
