Photography by Will Crooks

Prop Styling / Set Design by Eli Cate

Model Vaughn D. Newman Jr.

Eli had the privilege of working with photographer Will Crooks for a semester. These wire portraits are a personal project that came about when Will bought Eli some craft wire and said — “you’re crafty, make me some crowns or something.”

In addition to a crown, Eli created forms reminiscent of different aspects of nature. The vision was to create something ethereal and futuristic, while holding on to shapes that connect to the natural world.

(Left) Vaughn is covered by a metallic bird’s nest.

(Right) Vaughn wears a snakeskin print jacket, with a crown adorned by snake-like twists.

Photography by Will Crooks