Natalie Neal

Using the term “girly” to describe LA based photographer and director Natalie Neal’s work seems on the surface to be the easiest adjective – almost like a cop-out. Sure, her work is full of pastel hues, glitter and sequins, flowers, and beautiful garments. Dissect her images though, and what becomes apparent is the high emphasis and importance that she places on the themes of girlhood and feminine identity. Literally girly.

Natalie’s work is part of a larger trend in art, fashion, and photography - the world of the teenage girl. It is the world presented by the likes of Rookie, Sofia Coppola, hey, even sometimes us here at Ballad Of. This world is full of preoccupations, dreamy imagery, and recurring motifs and themes. It’s an idealised and sugar coated world, but one that is self-aware and unashamedly so. Take a look at Natalie’s picture of Kate Nash smoking a tampon – it’s exaggerated and totally dreamy, not a reflection of the realities of girlhood. But then again, why should it be?

Natalie has previously been featured on Ballad Of for her video “Seashells”. She was Nylon magazine’s artist in residence, and her client list includes Urban Outfitters, Oyster Magazine, and American Apparel. Look out for her upcoming music video to be featured herenext month starring Soko. We can't wait!

www.natalie-neal.com @NATALIENEAL