The Sensuality Project

Diana Deaver digs deep into beauty with new photo exhibit

What do you like about your body? That's the question photographer Diana Deaver recently posed to 12 of her friends -- nine women and three men.

A Christmastime trip home to her native Romania had inspired Deaver, reminding her of the European aesthetic related to beauty and esteem. "Here (in America)," she says, "it's a matter of what you might alter instead of what you appreciate."

So she asked her question, stirring several answers. My feet, one said. My collarbone, said another. My back. My waist. "Everything."

In return, Deaver snapped their portraits, emphasizing particular aspects of her subjects' bodies or personas for a piece she calls "The Sensuality Project." Her collection of 12 photographs debuts Feb. 25 for a monthlong exhibit at Torch Velvet Lounge, 545 King St. A gathering to celebrate the work will be held the day of the opening at the club, starting at 8 p.m.

"I just wanted to switch everyone's thinking, from the need to be perfect, to an appreciation for what they have," Deaver says.

Deaver purposely sought a group of nonprofessionals to be photographed. Though some had previous experience in front of the camera, many did not. Still, she found them all to be confident and sincere.

"They're all real people," Deaver says. "They have families and jobs. Just normal, regular lives."

But, make no mistake, this is an attractive bunch, ranging in age from roughly 20 to 40. The models featured include Katie Kern, Ali Carnevale, Camille Key, Courtney Stack, Monica Compton, Jessica Anderson, Jennifer McGrath, Chelsie Ravenell and Jourdan Callaway Frye.

For Ravenell and Frye, Deaver captured the real-life couple in a seductive embrace, unmindful of their surroundings, lost in love. She also shot the pair with their son, mischievous and happy, posing between the two.

"I wanted to show a different side," Deaver says. "It's not just a body. I wanted to show the three of them -- dad, mom and son. They're not just bodies."

Then for Jessica Anderson, Deaver photographed the model's sinewy back, knotted with curves and muscles. It's her jab at those who work out for the wrong reasons. Here, Deaver emphasizes fitness and health rather than image. It's another subtle shot from a talented, cerebral photographer as Deaver seeks to prod change in perspectives.

In total, the exhibit helps to spell a rich period of growth for Deaver, both professionally and personally. Her "VERTEX" photography project, spotlighting the Ravenel Bridge, was met with praise during a showing at Oak Steakhouse. Last year, she began teaching at the Charleston Center for Photography. And just two weeks ago, Deaver became an American citizen.

"If you're determined to look at the good in life," she says , sounding her mantra, "everyone will respond positively."

If you go

What: 'The Sensuality Project.'

When: 8 p.m. Feb. 25 (opening night). The exhibit will be on display through March 25.

Where: Torch Velvet Lounge, 545 King St., Charleston.

How much: Free.

More info: www.dianadeaver.com.