This Artist Turns Models Into Beautiful GIFs That Tell A Story

"They are like magic that we can't put our finger on."

Elle Muliarchyk is a New York-based artist who takes photos, makes films and creates some of the most beautiful GIFs the internet has ever seen.

Elle Muliarchyk / Via elles-belles.com

In a blog for Huffington Post, Muliarchyk explains her intense love for everyone's favourite kind of animation.

"My theory is that our brains run on GIFs. We remember and dream in GIFs. Think of a special moment in your past, like your first kiss. How do you visualize it? I bet it's not a static image like a perfect photo in a frame. Most likely it's a movement on a loop," she writes.

Each of Muliarchyk's GIFs tells a story. Malaika Firth - the first black model to appear in a Prada campaign in 20 years - kissing a frog, draws a link to the first black Disney Princess, the frog princess, Tiana.

Elle Muliarchyk / Via elles-belles.com

"GIFs are the greatest tool in my work as a fashion photographer and film director. First and foremost, I'm a story teller," she explains.

In her latest series, Muliarchyk explores the role make-up and beauty plays in the lives of women, transforming models into Barbie and Antoinette.

Elle Muliarchyk / Via elles-belles.com

Through her work, Muliarchyk utilizes the GIF as a form of "universal language", taking the models in her studio on a personal journey.

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"GIFs channel raw human emotion better than words or images," says Muliarchyk.

Here's to the power of the GIF.

Elle Muliarchyk / Via elles-belles.com

For more of Elle Muliarchyk's work visit her website or Instagram.