January 2023 -ongoing - January 2026 "The Doll Next Door" explores the deep emotional connections formed between individuals and their synthetic counterparts, revealing how companion dolls serve as confidants, companions, and even surrogate family members. It also delves into the concept of identity for both doll owners and their synthetic partners. For centuries, humanity has been intrigued by the idea of artificial companionship. Since 2018, and further catalyzed by the Covid era, the adult doll market has rapidly grown, fostering a global community engaged in "synthetic" relationships. Despite their significance, these relationships often remain hidden due to stigma. This project examines how they challenge societal norms and how advanced technology redefines the concept of intimacy. Plan for Completion: The scholarship will fund travel across Europe to meet doll owners in remote areas, enriching the project with diverse perspectives and expanding its visual narrative. This will also help map the community and explore their living environments. The funds will be used for travel expenses, additional photography, and production costs for publications. Some of my goals are: • Expand the project across Europe. • Create 50 additional photographic images. • Produce a Zine showcasing preliminary findings and visuals. • Organize a gallery exhibition featuring selected images. • Develop a monograph that compiles the project's full range of work and insights.
