Huffington Magazine Issue 179 | Page 5

Photos of the Week

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Body-Painted Man

Hides Perfectly Within Famous Landmarks

This takes blending in with your surroundings to a whole new level.

New York-based artist and photographer Trina Merry's travel photos are unlike anything we've seen. In her new series "Lost in Wonder," Merry explores the relationship between traveling and the "culture of the selfie." Merry pairs U.K. model Kyle James with breathtaking views of world-famous landmarks. In every picture, James' body is painted to blend in with the scenery.

Tourism now, Merry says, is unfulfilling and lacking because tourists don't exactly engage with their destinations. "Why are people traveling to these sites for only a brief moment to take a picture and brag to their friends?" Merry asked in a press release. "It completely isolates the architectural structure from its original meaning, intent and use.”

Merry traveled to China, Mexico, Egypt and Jordan among many other countries to shoot her series. She photographed James among a variety of landscapes and landmarks, including the Great Wall of China, the Colosseum and Stonehenge.

"I really wanted to understand what makes a place ‘great’. Why do these physical structures go down in history?" Merry said. "I was amazed that, due to the nature of contemporary tourism, so many people idealize these places but they leave with some selfies, a branded trinket and a bit of disappointment. They looked… lost.”

Scroll down to see a selection of Merry's work below, and head to her Facebook page to view more.

Rue Montorgueil, 75002 Paris, France

Serbian Orthodox Cathedral of St. Sava.

Calvary Episcopal Church.

St. Monica's Church.

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