The Doll Next Door

Biographie

Ludovica Limido was born on April 21, 1995 in Varese, Italy. After graduating in art, she embarked on a three-year journey through Australia and Southeast Asia, strengthening her bond with photography. In 2019, she was awarded a scholarship to study photography at the John Kaverdash Academy in Milan. She then began collaborating with local publications and organizations, gaining recognition for her storytelling skills. Commissioned in 2021 by the municipality of Cantello, Ludovica documented life in the northern Italian village, resulting in exhibitions and articles in publications such as Inkiesta and Icon Magazine.
Encouraged by her achievements, Ludovica launched her first long-term project, exploring the subculture of body suspension across Europe, for which she was awarded a Parallelozero scholarship. From 2022 to 2023, she captured the essence of the Milanese suburb of Giambellino for the Richard Photo District project and documented the folklore of a village in Alto Adige, which led to exhibition opportunities and publications. In 2023, she then delved into the world of pet dolls, exploring the intimate bond between humans and their larger-than-life counterparts. Guided by her interest in counter-cultures and individual narratives, Ludovica's photography captures human connections in diverse landscapes and communities.

Présentation

Since 2018, catalyzed further by the upheavals of the Covid era, the adult doll market has seen rapid growth, fostering a global community of individuals who opt for "synthetic" relationships. Their homes become gateways to a secret, private world dedicated to their dolls. Despite the undeniable significance of these relationships, most remain shrouded in secrecy. Online networks serve as lifelines, offering a sense of belonging in a world that often fails to understand their reality. "The Doll Next Door" explores the deep emotional connections formed between individuals and their synthetic counterparts, revealing how companion dolls serve as confidants, companions, and even surrogate family members. Moreover, it delves into the concept of identity for both doll owners and their synthetic companions.