Christine Turnauer: I saw more than I can tell

Christine Turnauer's black and white photo series from 1986, published in book form, captures the authentic and extraordinary portraits of North American indigenous dancers participating in traditional dance contests called powwows. The dancers are portrayed as spontaneous expressions of pride and inner freedom, with a connection to their ancestors.

Format: Hardback
Length: 88 pages
Publication date: 01 October 2020
Publisher: Hatje Cantz

A magnificent volume and a journey through time: This is Christine Turnauer's black and white photo series from 1986, first published in book form.

North American indigenous peoples travel thousands of miles to participate in traditional dance contests called powwows. Christine Turnauer visited them from northern Alberta to southern Montana with her mobile studio tent. The result was very authentic and extraordinary portraits. The dancers were completely themselves, and when they wear their traditional costumes, it becomes a spontaneous expression of pride and inner freedom. It seems as if they have a connection to their ancestors.

What at first glance may seem like the black-and-white photographs of an Edward S. Curtis and other classics of Indian portrait photography of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, is experiencing a new perspective with Turnauer. For the poses are not posed by the photographer, but arise from the active participation of those photographed.

Turnauer's approach is unique in that she allows the dancers to be themselves, without the constraints of traditional portrait photography. The result is a series of photographs that are both intimate and powerful, capturing the essence of the dancers and their culture.

One of the most striking aspects of Turnauer's work is the way she captures the connection between the dancers and their ancestors. The traditional costumes and hairstyles worn by the dancers are a direct link to their heritage, and the photographs seem to evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing for the past.

Turnauer's photographs also highlight the importance of community and tradition in indigenous cultures. The powwows are a way for the dancers to come together and celebrate their culture, and the photographs capture the sense of camaraderie and support that is present at these events.

Overall, Christine Turnauer's black and white photo series from 1986 is a remarkable achievement. Her photographs capture the beauty and complexity of North American indigenous cultures, and her approach to portrait photography is both innovative and respectful. The series is a testament to the power of photography to capture the essence of a culture and to inspire a sense of wonder and appreciation for the world around us.

Weight: 1056g
Dimension: 267 x 328 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783775748223