There is an undeniably performative element within the process of making the Muse photographs. The process leads Niki and me along a multitude of collaborative journeys, most of which are dance-like and humorous in nature. For Magritte’s Magie Noire, we painted a canvas backdrop, constructed a papier mache stone and took advantage of the chimney stack in the attic/storage space behind her apartment. We think Magritte might approve of our surrealist waltz.

Black Magic (1945), Rene Magritte

Fabric, makeup and feather color test

Practice makeup

Final touches to the hat

Painting the backdrop

Final setup of photo shoot props in Niki’s storage attic

Getting ready

A close-up for good measure