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The Atlas of Beauty


Synopsis


Photographs and stories of 500 women from around the world, based on the author's hugely popular website.

Since 2013 Mihaela Noroc has travelled the world with her backpack and camera taking photos of everyday women to showcase the diversity and beauty all around us. The Atlas of Beauty is a collection of her photographs that celebrates women from fifty countries across the globe and shows that beauty is everywhere, regardless of money, race or social status, and comes in many different sizes and colours. Mihaela's portraits feature women in their native environments, from the Amazon rain forest to markets in India, London city streets and parks in Harlem, creating a mirror of our varied cultures and proving that beauty has no rules.

'Stunning . . . aims to challenge the ideals of beauty dictated by the women's fashion magazine industry' Independent

'A startling and revealing project' Daily Mail

'Scrolling through "The Atlas of Beauty", beauty becomes not a universal standard, but a complicated tapestry' Huffington Post

Summary

Chapter 1: Introduction

This chapter introduces the concept of the book, which is to showcase the beauty of women from all over the world. The author, Mihaela Noroc, explains her motivation for starting the project and her belief that beauty is not limited to one particular culture or ethnicity.

Real example: Noroc describes meeting a woman from Papua New Guinea who had a traditional lip plate. Noroc was initially taken aback by the plate, but she came to appreciate its beauty and cultural significance.

Chapter 2: Africa

This chapter features photos of women from various African countries, including Ethiopia, Kenya, Namibia, and South Africa. The photos capture the diversity of African beauty, from the dark skin and high cheekbones of the Ethiopian women to the light skin and delicate features of the Nama women.

Real example: One of the women featured in this chapter is a Maasai warrior from Kenya. She is dressed in traditional Maasai clothing and jewelry, and her photo conveys the strength and confidence of the Maasai people.

Chapter 3: Asia

This chapter showcases the beauty of women from Asia, including China, Japan, India, and Vietnam. The photos reveal the different cultural traditions and beauty ideals of each country. For example, the Chinese women are known for their porcelain skin and delicate features, while the Indian women are known for their colorful clothing and vibrant jewelry.

Real example: One of the women featured in this chapter is a Geisha from Japan. She is wearing a traditional kimono and has her face painted white. Her photo captures the mystery and allure of the Geisha profession.

Chapter 4: Europe

This chapter features photos of women from various European countries, including France, Italy, Spain, and Russia. The photos celebrate the diversity of European beauty, from the pale skin and blonde hair of the Scandinavian women to the dark hair and olive skin of the Mediterranean women.

Real example: One of the women featured in this chapter is a Flamenco dancer from Spain. She is dressed in a traditional Flamenco costume and is posing in a dramatic dance posture. Her photo conveys the passion and energy of the Flamenco dance.

Chapter 5: North America

This chapter showcases the beauty of women from North America, including the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The photos reveal the different racial and ethnic backgrounds of North American women, as well as their unique styles and personalities.

Real example: One of the women featured in this chapter is a Native American woman from the Navajo tribe. She is wearing a traditional Navajo blanket and has her face painted with a traditional design. Her photo captures the pride and heritage of the Navajo people.

Chapter 6: South America

This chapter features photos of women from various South American countries, including Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and Peru. The photos celebrate the vibrant and diverse beauty of South American women, from the dark hair and sultry eyes of the Brazilian women to the fair skin and indigenous features of the Peruvian women.

Real example: One of the women featured in this chapter is a Carnival dancer from Brazil. She is wearing a colorful Carnival costume and is posing in a festive dance posture. Her photo conveys the joy and excitement of the Brazilian Carnival.

Chapter 7: Antarctica

This chapter is a special feature that focuses on the beauty of women living in Antarctica. The photos capture the resilience and determination of these women, who live in one of the most extreme environments on Earth.

Real example: One of the women featured in this chapter is a research scientist who works in Antarctica. She is wearing a warm parka and hat, and her photo conveys the challenges and rewards of living in such an isolated and unforgiving environment.

Philippines

Philippines

Gastro Obscura

Gastro Obscura

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka

Indonesia

Indonesia