Louisa Armstrong
Hidden deep within the forest stands an old tree stump that appears ordinary at first glance. It sits quietly among roots and fallen leaves, unremarkable at a distance, as though it has always belonged there and always will.
But on closer inspection, subtle details begin to reveal themselves. Tiny carved steps, wind carefully up one side of the stump. Following them upward leads to something entirely unexpected, a small cottage resting perfectly on top of the stump.
This project focuses on creating a realistic life-size tree trunk set piece with a miniature cottage positioned on top. Designed as a film prop for close-up cinematography, the piece combines natural textures, believable materials, and fantasy storytelling. The aim is to create an environment that feels grounded in reality while hinting at the existence of an unseen magical inhabitant.
This thesis examines the role of film as a tool of propaganda and control in the depiction of women's roles during and after the Second World War. Examining cinema produced in Nazi Germany, wartime Britain and America, and the post-war British and American film industries, it explores how women were repeatedly moulded into simplified caricatures. These were designed to serve the political and social needs of their respective societies. Despite the varying national contexts, a reoccurring factor was the reliance on restrictive female archetypes to regulate women’s behaviour.
This thesis identifies three main caricatures that recur across wartime and post-war cinema: the self-sacrificing mother, the wholesome “girl next door,” and the dangerous independent woman. These figures showed a clear agenda in coercing women, rewarding submission and domesticity while punishing ambition and independence.
I am a modelmaker from County Monaghan with a passion for creating, exploring, and problem solving through making. Driven by curiosity, I enjoy experimenting across a wide range of mediums and subjects, using modelmaking as a way to investigate ideas and bring concepts to life. During my time at IADT, I have been able to expand my love for hands on creative practice and develop my skills through collaborative and experimental work. I am eager to continue growing my knowledge and experience post grad.
