rituality

• Prize
  Silver in Fine Art/People
• Photographer
  Michal Chelbin, United States
• Studio
  Michal Chelbin

Rituality: Between Ritual and Reality is a photographic series exploring identity, tradition, and performance among youth engaged in cultural rituals. The Japan chapter focuses on young maiko (apprentice geishas), sumo wrestlers, and kabuki actors in rural areas. In these communities, boys often perform female roles in kabuki, while girls portray warriors, challenging conventional gender norms. The series captures moments of transformation—applying makeup, donning traditional attire, and rehearsing performances—highlighting the dedication required to embody these cultural roles.