To us, a veiled woman represents the polar opposite of Western feminism, which eschews modesty in favor of brazenness. To us, the veiled woman is a bound silent figure. Their silhouettes stand in stark opposition to the Western idealized and sexualized female form. There is nothing overt about their veiled silhouette, yet there is an undeniable beauty that lurks underneath their silk shrouds. I’ve photographed women radiating with ideas, opinions, wisdom, beauty, integrity, and life experience, however modestly they are dressed. I’ve met with women that are just as bold, strong, and outspoken as their peers in New York , Los Angeles, Paris, and Rome.

After five months of photographing, I’ve come to realize that the veil is just that- A Layer. At times, it creates an aura that is surprisingly elegant. At other times, it feels constrictive and harsh. Whether it obscures, subjugates, accessorizes, or elevates, the veil is an article of clothing, a symbol at best. It’s not the woman.