This project is a photo-novel based on the story of Little Red Riding Hood.
Our narrative begins with an initial analysis of the tale, focusing on the investigation and development of the wolf character. We discovered how other versions of the story unveil the masculine figure behind the disguised and softened actions of this wild animal. Using this as a starting point, we analyze male behavior with a reflective intent, first through the lens of Little Red Riding Hood and then by placing the character in a real-world context.
This journey of analysis begins with the discovery of Hermann Hesse's book "Steppenwolf", which serves as a foundation for understanding and shaping a fictional character. We observe his behavior and way of thinking, reflect on our character as a social individual, and move beyond the wolf's disguise to emphasize improving the understanding of man as a starting point.
observing the wolf's ears
The project draws inspiration from photographer Lee Friedlander and artist Olafur Eliasson, combining Friedlander’s spontaneity and style with Eliasson’s shift in perception and critical vision. The narrative unfolds through chapters defined by colors, each associated with different emotional states of the character, using color psychology to explore their personal evolution.
Red, linked to anger, fear, and blood, represents the character’s most primal and instinctive state, where their wildest and most natural side emerges, unable to control their impulses. As the story progresses, blue signifies a moment of introspection and self-awareness, where the character begins to acknowledge their shadows and fears, confronting them as an essential step toward acceptance. Finally, yellow symbolizes happiness, energy, and mental clarity, reflecting the moment when the character reaches a state of liberation and acceptance. This stage demonstrates their ability to fully understand themselves and manage all the facets that define them.
The chromatic and emotional structure of the project guides the viewer through the character’s profound transformation, highlighting the symbolic power of color in their inner journey.
"Imagine a garden with a hundred kinds of trees, a thousand kinds of flowers, a hundred kinds of fruit and vegetables. Suppose, then, that the gardener knew no other distinction than between edible and inedible; nine-tenths of this garden would be useless to him. He would pull up the most enchanting flowers and hew down the noblest trees and even regard them with a loathing and envious eye. This is what the Steppenwolf does with the thousand flowers of his soul. What does not stand classified as either man or wolf he does not see at all. And consider all that he imputes to 'man'! All that is cowardly and apish, stupid and mean—while to the wolf, only because he has not succeeded in making himself its master, is set down all that is strong and noble."
— Hesse, Hermann. Steppenwolf.