Release the Inner Warrior

One dress. Sixteen photographers. Sixteen completely different ways to tell a story.

That’s the magic of Same Dress Spokane, a collaborative charity photography project that passes a single dress from one Spokane photographer to the next. Each artist gets one week to create something distinctly their own. This year, my vision involved medieval fantasy, feminine strength, and my favorite person to bring both to life: my daughter, Aubrey.

Aubrey was the first girl’s name her dad and I could agree on. Its meaning, “Elfin King” or “Ruler of Elves,” gave us the perfect starting point. How could we possibly pass up an opportunity to turn her into an elven queen?

We photographed our series in June, then had to keep everything secret until the September 14 reveal. For someone who gets ridiculously excited about sharing new work, that wait felt LONG.

Our first look embraced the softer side of fantasy. Pointed ears, a leafy crown, an embroidered corset, and that flowing rust-colored dress created a character who looked at home among the grasses and trees. Golden evening light brought warmth to the images, while Aubrey’s expression carried a quiet confidence. Beautiful, magical, and entirely capable of ruling her own kingdom.

Then we let the warrior out.

With dark makeup, leather details, a black corset, and an axe raised against the evening sky, the story shifted. These photographs explored raw, uninhibited emotion: the kind of rage that demands to be felt and the strength that rises with it.

I wanted these images to say something: let yourself feel it. Let it move through you. Let it awaken the warrior who has been there all along.

Then let her roar.

Aubrey modeled, created her own hair and makeup looks, and collaborated with me on styling. Leah from CMP Studio with Leah assisted, helping us bring this ambitious vision together. Creating alongside my daughter made the experience incredibly personal.

Thank you to Rachel Fellows for organizing a project that celebrates Spokane’s creative voices while supporting women in our community. This year’s fundraiser benefits Volunteers of America’s Hope House Respite Center.

Join us Friday, October 2, at 6 p.m. at Brick West Brewing for the Same Dress Spokane Showcase. All sixteen photographers will display one printed image from their series.

Come celebrate local art, see how far one dress can travel creatively, and help support this much-needed resource for women.

We don’t do boring. We do meaningful.