Although we have always been fascinated by the workings of the human mind and behavior, it was not until the beginning of the 20th century that experiments in psychology multiplied. The objective of experimentation on living subjects was to push the boundaries of scientific knowledge.

But this type of experimentation raises many ethical questions. Some scientists have been able to abuse women, men, children and animals with impunity and discretion, under the pretext of advancing their research. Where do we draw the line between discovery and violation of rights?

Throughout her studies in psychology, Coco Amardeil was confronted with these complex questions. If today it seems natural to us to denounce abusive treatment or human rights violations, this was far from being the case in the past. SHOCK THERAPY takes the form of a fictional archive: a series of contemporary photographs inspired by historical events.

The series of images was staged and produced since 2024. It explores a troubled territory where photography and text intertwine, staging real cases. The diversity of framing, the format of the typewritten texts and the ambiguity of the time blur the line between reality and reconstruction. By questioning the veracity of the facts, this work reveals practices that are often forgotten or unknown to the general public.