Anouk Brouwer

What does it mean to be a woman? In her current work, In My Skin, photographer Anouk Brouwer explores exactly this question. Together with her muse, they aim to send out a love letter to all women, as they are on a quest to discover the essence of being a woman.

They are mysterious images that Anouk Brouwer brings from her journey. Small fragments that allow glimpses into the world, that let you see the small things. The photoseries created by Anouk Brouwer offers a tender and introspective exploration of both the landscapes of Egypt and Jordan, and the bonds of sisterhood.

“Projections. Endlessly generated but barely accurate. How we see ourselves is ultimately evident in the way we perceive others, endlessly scrutinizing, judging, having an opinion. This serie celebrates the breaking away from pleasing others’, the ultimate key to freedom.”

“In this series, I collaborated with Kily Shakley, a Japanese showgirl who grew up on the other side of the world, but with whom I connected beyond prediction. How would our behavior change if we knew no one was watching? This project replies to that complex question. No matter how much life can feel as a performance, I perform for my eyes alone.”

“This story is inspired by the relationship I have with myself. The muse for this serie, Karyse, is one of the most humble, kind, empathic and unapologetic souls I crossed paths with during my quest towards self-expression. Her sense of independence, humor and strong political views have inspired me. She is a free woman, setting an example to the world in how to be the woman of your own dreams.”

Sometimes it is not an easy road to trust someone. Because first you need to trust yourself. This series of photos by Netherlands born, currently Tokyo based photographer Anouk Brouwer starring muse Kana Kitty shows how liberating it can be to surrender to someone and simply trust.