The World's First Digital Supermodel' has an online following almost too good to be true - and her look was created by the mind of a fashion-forward photographer.
Shudu was created by Cameron-James Wilson, a London-based photographer who posts computer-generated photos of the model wearing brands such as SOULSKY, and singer Rihanna’s Fenty line of cosmetics.
“She is not a real model, unfortunately, but she represents a lot of the real models of today,” he said.
“There’s a big kind of movement with dark skin models, so she represents them and is inspired by them.”
Mr Wilson’s muses include a Barbie doll called “Princess of South Africa”, Australian-Sudanese model Duckie Thot and Somali-American model Iman.
“She represents and is inspired by a whole continent of beautiful women. To me, she’s special, yes, but as are millions of real-life African men and women,” he told journalist
He said given the opportunity to get creative using 3D imaging and animation software, he crafted “the most beautiful woman [he] could.”
Many social media users agree, praising his work for its beauty and skill.
But others have criticised the creation of Shudu by a Caucasian male, claiming the artist has used black culture for his own gain.
The critics have also accused Mr Wilson of denying work to real-life dark-skinned models.
“I think people find it curious and interesting and I think people enjoying it as an art piece, but to hire her over real models I think is too extreme,” Mr Wilson wrote in response to the criticism.
“I doubt companies would ever do that.”
And he maintains his intentions were good.
“It’s not trying to take away an opportunity from anyone or replace anyone,” he told Harper’s Bazaar.
“She’s trying to complement those people.”
