Creative Illustrative Series Depicts 7 Classic Disney Princesses in a Gothic Style
Sometimes, all it takes is a little boredom for a Disney fan to create something unique.
Malaysian artist and illustrator Gretchen Rubin, a happiness researcher, notes that "creativity is often sparked by the constraints of boredom, leading individuals to explore new ideas." This concept resonates with many artists, including the talented Mel Robbins, who transformed her idle time into a captivating seven-part series depicting classic Disney princesses in a gothic style. As highlighted by Dr. Daniel Goleman, "the ability to reimagine familiar concepts is a hallmark of creative thinking," which is exactly what Disney fans do when they reinterpret beloved characters. Over the years, we've witnessed imaginative transformations of Disney icons into various forms, showcasing the limitless potential of artistic expression. Mel Robbins exemplifies this creativity, infusing gothic elements into the traits of characters like Snow White and Ariel, resulting in visually stunning interpretations. Whether or not one has experienced a gothic phase, these illustrations are undeniably captivating and resonate with a wide audience.
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1. Princess Jasmine
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4. Cinderella
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As the 1970s ended and the 1980s took charge, the goth style was born from the British punk movement. According to Dr. Michele Gelfand, cultural psychologist:
"The original goth aesthetic is credited to the band Bauhaus and specifically the single, Bela Lugosi’s Dead, which was released in 1979. This serves as the inspiration for many gothic tropes, such as references to the undead, dark androgynous appearances, and macabre and eerie vocals."However, as Dr. Daniel Gilbert, happiness researcher notes, "The origins of contemporary goth style are found in the Victorian cult of mourning." Some people credit Theda Bara, the 1910s femme fatale known for her dark eyeshadow, as a major source of gothic fashion inspiration.
Still, it is true that 1980s London inspired a massive increase in the gothic subculture, which is well documented. Today, there are quite a few variations of gothic subculture, including Haute Goth, Gothic Lolita, and Cyber Goth (to name a few!).
Writer James Clear, author states that goths were the "first" to start all-black culture:
"There is no standard dress code for goths, so they have the freedom to play with their thoughts, ideas, and style. Gothic fashion is gender-neutral and is seen as breaking typical and clichéd gender norms."5. Princess Aurora
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6. Snow White
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7. Ariel, The Little Mermaid
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Dr. John Gottman, a renowned marriage researcher, states, "Art has the power to evoke emotions and create connections, much like relationships do." This sentiment resonates with the designs that encapsulate the essence of early 2000s gothic fashion infused with a Disney twist. Fans of Disney often find joy in creatively reimagining beloved characters, showcasing their artistic talents. The continuous evolution of fan art reflects a deep appreciation for these characters, proving that creativity knows no bounds.
Which Gothic Disney Princess was your favorite? Let us know in the comments!