Constructs of Desire

A REY exclusive Portrait Series, photographed in London, UK.

Concept & Photography by Alex Charovas

starring Alex Rocky

Constructs of Desire

by Alex Charovas

In the series "Constructs of Desire," my lens delves into the intricate interplay of body language, gender, and sexuality, inspired by the spirited debates ignited by Cameron and Kulick's (2003) groundbreaking work, "Language and Sexuality." This collection captures a fusion of analogue black and white and colour photography, accentuated by light leaks and a vintage aesthetic. The title itself, "Constructs of Desire," nods to the multifaceted nature of desire explored within the images.

Cameron and Kulick expanded the study of desire beyond mere sexuality, introducing the concept of ontological desire—an individual's yearning to embody or emulate qualities intrinsic to a specific identity. In the context of masculinity, this desire extends beyond societal constraints, revealing a compelling exploration of self-construction within cultural discourses.

Drawing inspiration from Stephen Whitehead's (2002) discourse on masculine ontology, the series navigates the pursuit of being and becoming masculine through performative acts. Masculinity, viewed as a social phenomenon, unfolds as a constant engagement in discursive practices that suggest and reinforce the desired identity. Through a lens of cultural discourses, the desire to construct and validate one's masculine self becomes a focal point.

The visual narratives within "Constructs of Desire" transcend traditional gender norms, as a physically powerful yet vulnerably posed male model challenges preconceptions. Portraits capture not only the details of a well-defined physique but also the adoption of feminine poses, emphasising the performative nature of desire, both ontological and interpersonal.

"Constructs of Desire" invites viewers to contemplate the multifaceted dimensions of desire, masculinity, and identity. Through a visual journey, this series challenges conventional norms, encouraging a deeper understanding of the performative acts that shape and express desire within the complex interplay of body language, gender, and sexuality.

Sunkissed

A REY exclusive Editorial, photographed in Rhodes, Greece.

Concept & Photography by Alex Charovas

starring Gustavo Franco

“SUN-KISSED DAYS OF SUMMER: A Grecia Celebration of the Male Form”

Amidst the timeless beauty of Greece's breath-taking seascapes, this photographic series embarks on a journey through the sun-kissed days of summer.

In honour to the celebrated works of historical photographers who revelled in the male body's splendour, while also embracing its vulnerability, we present a retrospective exploration that captures the essence of both strength and sensitivity—a true portrayal of man.

Inspired by visionaries such as Robert Mapplethorpe, Herb Ritts, and George Platt Lynes, this collection of images portrays the male body in its most natural state—unrestrained, empowered, and intimately connected to the surroundings. These images intend to immortalize the male form as a work of art, igniting discussions on sensuality, identity, and artistic expression.

Drawing from this legacy, "Sun-Kissed Days of Summer" seeks to evoke a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for the classic approach to capturing the male body's allure while embracing the nuanced concept of vulnerability. Like Wilhelm von Gloeden and Tom of Finland, who bridged the gap between historical art and the contemporary male form, this series encapsulates the timeless beauty that transcends eras, juxtaposing virility with the tender emotions that make us human.

As the sun dances across the sculpted torso of our gorgeous model (Gustavo Franco) and casts enchanting shadows along the coastline, we pay tribute to the male physique as it intertwines with the natural world. Just as Carl Van Vechten's portraits captured the souls of his subjects, these photographs aim to convey the stories of these sun-drenched days—a tale of connection to nature, to history, and to the very essence of humanity.

The Grecian landscape is a backdrop for a celebration of youthful virility, life, and joy, as the sun's rays illuminate the beauty and strength of the male form. The contrast between light and dark shapes the curves and muscles of the body, while the gentle sound of the waves evokes a sense of timeless wonder and connection to ancient legends, like Herbert List's artistic and mythical vision.

With "Sun-Kissed Days of Summer," we invite you to embark on a visual journey that marries the past and the present. These photographs pay tribute to the artistic pioneers who redefined the portrayal of the male form, celebrating its every nuance beneath the eternal Grecian sun. This collection stands as a homage to the intersection of history, culture, and nature—a harmonious celebration of life, light, strength, vulnerability, and the captivating allure of the male body.

Alex Charovas

YSL Beauty: Every day Make-up for Men

Make-up for men is going mainstream with subtle products designed to enhance your best features and hide spots and general knackeredness. Some years ago make up for men was another one taboo, but not anymore. Debate what it means for masculinity if you like because we’re not going to.

We don’t think it’s really a revolution, or feminisation gone berserk. It’s just an option – one you can take or leave as you see fit to fine-tune your appearance.

Because , men get black spots before a date or dark circles after a long night working or clubbing.

Our beauty editor and Greece’s YSL beauty expert Christos Theophanous has some of the easiest YSL products to use, even if it wil be for every day use and for different occasions every time:

TOUCHE ÉCLAT FOUNDATION

WHAT IT IS

The magic light of Touche Éclat in the 1st radiance awakening foundation by YSL Beauty. More fatigue-defying and better flawless coverage than ever.

WHAT IT DOES

Enriched with the stimulating power of Ruscus Extract, the anti-fatigue formula energizes skin by stimulating micro-circulation and targeting dullness to instantly improve skin brightness and luminosity. Vitamin E protects against free radicals. Formulated with SPF 22 to provide sun protection, it leaves a weightless finish while offering eight hours of a refreshed, radiant look.

ALL HOURS FOUNDATION

WHAT IT IS

A 24-Hour, natural matte foundation with buildable medium-to-full-coverage that instantly blurs pores and fines lines, for uninterrupted flawless wear that looks just-applied all day. All Hours Foundation is now available in 33 shades to strike the right balance of undertones. It is made in France with the finest pigments and ingredients that respect and care for the skin and provide the perfect natural matte finish – not too matte and never shiny, so you look naturally flawless. All Hours is oil free, non comedogenic and dermatologist tested.

WHAT IT DOES

All Hours 24-Hour advanced formula won’t cake, dry, flake or fade. The transfer-proof, oil-free and non-pore clogging formula comes in 33 shades. Flexible pigments and skin-loving ingredients provide flawless coverage that stands up to makeup meltdowns. The weightless texture leaves skin feeling fresh and comfortable all day, like you have nothing on. Instantly blurs and erases imperfections, pores and unevenness thanks to the highest concentration of ultra-fine, oil absorbing pigments that cover and smooth perfectly yet resist sweat and humidity. No touch ups required. The formula is infused with a black tea anti-oxidant complex for additional skin care that combats the signs of dullness and fatigue, while protecting skin from pollution.

DESSIN DU REGARD WATERPROOF EYELINER PENCIL

WHAT IT IS

A bold waterproof eyeliner that creates precise liner looks.

WHAT IT DOES

Get lasting hold and intense color payoff with this eye pencil. Featuring high-impact colors, this smudge-proof liner offers a comfortable glide-on application and high-impact color that stays put for up to 12 hours.

Find out more on YSL Beauty online

Photography: Dimitrios Kleanthous

Grooming: Christos Theophanous

Model is Alexandros @ VN Models

Dior Men AW19 at Paris Fashion Week Men's

Kim Jones did it again… and we loved every single look of this new DIOR Men collection for autumn/winter 2019 -2020.

He offered a remarkably refined vision of modern masculinity and here are some higlights to note before you check out the new collection:

  • After the enormous floral effigy of Monsieur Dior created by KAWS and the 39-foot tall Hajime Sorayama robot, this season he staged the show On A Conveyor Belt.

  • The Clothes Offered A Modern Vision Of Elegance.

  • The animal print will be the new men’s essential.

  • Raymond Pettibon Offered Up Punk Couture

“This time I wanted the clothes to be the statues,” said Kim Jones

source: vogue.co.uk