Heather McGrath’s Moving Sculpture

Wanting to photograph something truly unique, Massachusetts-based photographer Heather McGrath got together with her friend Silas Finch, a sculptor out of New Haven, to create a very non-traditional art piece. 

Although clothing as art is not a new concept, Silas pitched the idea of using an enormous World War II era parachute as a sort of moveable sculpture.  Heather’s photographic eye immediately knew that this was the art piece she had been looking to shoot.  “I love putting beauty in nature,” says Heather, “so I was immediately excited when I heard Silas’ idea!”

The shoot took place on a treacherous, weather-beaten cliffside just north of Boston where Heather is based.  Having shot at this location before, Heather knew that the backdrop would lend the exact dramatic feel that she wanted to convey with these photographs. 

Recruiting stylist Joji Goto to make sure the dress and model looked perfect, and Manda Carco of Anchor Artists to do hair and makeup, Heather and her small team got to work.  The conditions were dangerous, and Silas risked life and limb to “sculpt” the dress between shots in order to maintain the artful, flowing look.  “Silas even had to carry the model down from the rocks at one point because she couldn’t walk in the dress,” Heather recalled.

Although it may seem like the photos are highly produced, the whole shoot was very organic, utilizing only natural lighting and wind.  At the end of three hours Heather was happy with what she had captured, and she wrapped the shoot before the sharp and craggy rocks could claim a victim.

The photographs turned out beautifully, and were on display in a well-received exhibition along with the dress last summer in Boston.  Excited to take their concept to the next level, Heather and Silas are already brainstorming their next artful collaboration.

For more of Heather’s beautiful work, visit her FoundFolios portfolio.