In Fall 2024 my friend, Marie, moved into a new home. She had already said ‘yes’ to my invitation to participate in this project, but we hadn’t yet zeroed in on a plan… and then I saw her post on ig highlighting the wallpaper she’d hung in her new dining room and it conjured in me the remembrance of John William Waterhouse’s works.
It’s written that Waterhouse drew inspiration from mythology and literature, often depicting dynamic women whom he painted within nature-filled scenes. I love the way he was able to weave strength with softness, romance with realism, and resolve with pensiveness. Marie’s wallpaper evoked that same feel for me AND would allow us to shoot indoors, a definite upside for this fair-weather-photog during winter in Calgary!
Shown here are two that I drew particular inspiration from:
Boreas, John William Waterhouse 1903
The Soul of the Rose, John William Waterhouse 1908
One of my favourite things about Marie is her kindness… she can walk into any room or project with the skill + confidence of the pro she is, and it’s always accompanied by a quiet generosity of spirit. Whether she’s engaging with her partner or kiddos, clients or friends, she embodies an innate gentleness in her approach… something I deeply admire in her and have benefited from as a client, photographer, and friend.
My hope was to emulate a painterly feel, while honouring JWW’s work and celebrating this amazing woman… goddess, if you will.
Calliope with Ranunculus / Marie x Waterhouse
(Calliope: Greek Goddess of Epic Poetry and Eloquence)
Inspired by John Williams Waterhouse
© 2025 Lori Maloney
Asteria with Hyacinth / Marie x Waterhouse
(Asteria: Greek Titan Goddess of Falling Stars)
Inspired by John Williams Waterhouse
© 2025 Lori Maloney
What a perfect morning spent in the warmth of your beautiful home, Marie. Thank you for the many laughs, openness to experimentation (be it wardrobe, makeup or fan!), and for the yummy charcuterie and specialty coffees (your guy is an OG pro at caffeinated goodness!)! I’m so grateful for you and LOVE what we created together.
These two framed originals are available here and limited prints will also be made available in the new year.
With gratitude,
xo
Lori