Artist Statement

Created in collaboration with Makaila for her birthday and brand expression, MerKai4U (More Kai) explores fashion, identity, and personal storytelling through a conceptual portrait series. Inspired by Makaila’s initial creative ideas, I developed mood boards, visual references, and posing direction to translate the concept into a cohesive visual narrative. Makaila also contributed to the styling by creating her outfit, which further reinforced the personal and brand-driven nature of the project.

Captured at the Levine Center for the Arts Parking Garage in Charlotte, NC, this series uses environment, color, and composition to create a fashion-forward portrait experience that extends beyond traditional birthday photography.