Most of us know the late Leonard Nimoy as Mr. Spock from Star Trek. But Nimoy was also an avid and talented photographer who was fascinated by the female figure. After several discussions with friends and fans about his photos, which often featured "conventionally attractive" women, he became concerned with what message he was sending with his work."[T]he people in these pictures always fell under the umbrella of a certain body type," wrote Nimoy in his artist statement for his series, The Full Body Project. "I'll call it a 'classic' look," he continued, "[a]lways within range of the current social consensus of what is 'beautiful.'" 

So Nimoy decided to challenge his own (and society's) biases and preconceptions of beauty by working with women whose bodies were of all shapes and sizes. "I wanted these pictures to be more about them," he explained. "These women are projecting an image that is their own. And one that also stems from their own story rather than mine. Their self-esteem is strong ... With these new images, I am now hearing different words. Sometimes 'beautiful,' but with a different sub-text. I hear comments, which lead to questions. The questions lead to discussions — about beauty, social acceptability, plastic surgery, our culture and health. In these pictures these women are proudly wearing their own skin. They respect themselves and I hope that my images convey that to others." 

Have a look at some of his gorgeous, inspired, and artful photos below, and see more here

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Media Platforms Design Team
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All images courtesy of  R. Michelson Galleries.

[H/T Mashable

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