A Romantic Photographer’s Glance at Women’s Submission Wrestling!

Driven by my fascination with the dynamics of human relationships and the duality of body and soul, in this project I look into an environment where strength and vulnerability intertwine in ways that are both physical and intangible. Through these photographs, I am drawn to the unspoken exchanges that unfold on the mat, and the moments of intensity that seem to extend beyond the immediate.

There’s a constant interplay in these friendly but intense matches that fascinates me; the push and pull of control and release, dominance and surrender, and the physical and the ephemeral. And then there are fleeting moments and subtle details that let my camera see past the minimally clothed bodies of these admirably strong women; a locked gaze, a momentary calm, the relentless pressure of a hold, or the genuine expressions shared between the wrestlers. In this way, the mat becomes more than a space for contest; it transforms into a stage where potentially different reflections of human feelings, desires and relationships could be seen.

With special thanks to Pippa, Jolene, Delilah, Siren, Lexi, Amber and all others who made this photography project possible.