Edinburgh shopping centre to attract art addicts

They will be dressed in striking , dark outfits which showcase a human addiction that is difficult to crack. The project, called Deadly Desires, includes representations of sex, alcohol, drugs, nicotine and food.

The intricate but overpowering costumes, designed by budding local artist Harriet Kirkwood, are scheduled to be on display in Princes Mall over two nights in July.

As well as being able to view the models trapped in oversized golden cages, guests will be able to see them each perform in a deserted unit at the mall.

The dens – which will act as window displays – are to be decorated according to the addiction. The booze addict's space will feature empty wine bottles while the drug addict's den will include syringes.

Miss Kirkwood, 25, who is in her final year at the Edinburgh College of Art, explained: "The collection is inspired by the deadly relationships that the human mind and body indulges in within the world of addiction.

"Each costume explores the dangerous yet intoxicating nature of the addictive substances sex, alcohol, drugs, nicotine and food.

"The display is designed as a promenade theatre experience. Rather than be a still work of art, each model will house an individual installation so that as the audience are led through the different spaces they are introduced to different addictions separately.

"People will also be taken in after hours to meet the addictions and their consequences."

Donna Watson, head of marketing at Princes Mall said the display was a powerful one that would highlight how harmful addiction can be.

She added: "The effect of the models is very powerful. While they are very beautiful, the display is also quite disturbing.

"The metaphor of the models being in the cage, breaking out of the cage, and then remaining free to walk around the mall, or caving into to their addiction again in their den is one that I'm sure a lot of people can relate to."

She added: "Shopping can be an addiction itself, so the setting is rather apt."