Phyllis Galembo: Mexico, Masks & Rituals

Phyllis Galembo's photographs showcase the costume, ritual, and traditions of masquerade Mexico, capturing cultural performances with a subterranean political edge. She captures her subjects informally posed, often strikingly attired in traditional or ritualistic dress, exposing an ornate code of political, artistic, theatrical, social, and religious symbolism and commentary. Galembo highlights the creativity of the individuals morphing into a fantastical representation of themselves, rooted in the larger dynamics of religious, political, and cultural affiliation.

Format: Hardback
Length: 196 pages
Publication date: 25 April 2019
Publisher: Radius Books

Phyllis Galembo, a renowned photographer, has embarked on a captivating journey to capture the extraordinary essence of masquerade traditions across the world. Her dedication has led her to diverse destinations, including Africa, the Caribbean, and now Mexico, where she unravels the political undertones hidden within cultural performances. Through her direct and unpretentious portrait style, Galembo skillfully captures her subjects in informal yet striking attire, often adorned in traditional or ritualistic garments. With a keen eye for the interplay between past, present, and future, she unveils the timeless elegance and dignity of her subjects.

Masking, a profound and intricate tradition, allows participants to transcend the physical realm and enter the spiritual realm. Galembo's vibrant images unveil a rich tapestry of political, artistic, theatrical, social, and religious symbolism and commentary. She highlights the remarkable creativity of individuals who transform themselves into fantastical representations, skillfully cobbling together materials from their immediate environment to idealize their vision of mythical figures. While maintaining their distinct personal identities, the subjects' intentions are deeply rooted in the broader dynamics of religious, political, and cultural affiliations. This hallmark of Galembo's work establishes meaningful connections between her subjects and their respective contexts.

Weight: 1584g
Dimension: 267 x 246 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781942185574