Rachel Papo is an amazing Israeli photographer whose work spans the arts, politics and social commentary. My favorite project of hers is Desperately Perfect, which explores life at the Vaganova Ballet Academy in St. Petersburg, Russia.
"In these times of reality TV and instant stardom, in a country that is constantly evolving towards western culture, there exists an institution in which the old ways are still practiced. From the age of ten until eighteen; twelve hours a day; six days a week; on the barre or in a classroom—for the students of this school there are no shortcuts."
Photo credits: http://www.rachelpapo.com/perfect1.html
