Structure

Photography has evolved from 1839 to create portraits of individuals, families, and the emerging urban bourgeoisie. It has an exceptional quality of artistic finish and is a work of anthropological scope. Isabelle Boccon-Gibod's work is inspired by the work of Bernd and Hilla Becher and focuses on the idea that our bodies, when joined together, form a sort of architecture. She was guided by the principle that a family seen as a façade-like structure, in which faces are the windows, offers a neutrality of expression worth considering.

Format: Hardback
Length: 88 pages
Publication date: 05 June 2021
Publisher: Hemeria

From its inception in 1839, photography has played a pivotal role in capturing portraits of individuals, gradually expanding to encompass family portraits, which were often compiled into photo albums. As photography evolved, it entered the realm of personal intimacy, allowing individuals to assemble and organize the fragmented fragments of their lives according to their own preferences. This evolution followed the footsteps of earlier forms of portraiture, such as miniature portraits, silhouettes, and physiognomy traces. Moreover, the photographic portrait catered to the emerging urban bourgeoisie's desire for social representation, fulfilling their aspirations for a visual identity. Consequently, studios sprouted up across cities, responding to the rapidly growing demand for portrait photography.

One of the distinguishing features of photography was its aesthetic superiority, setting it apart from its predecessors. Even in its early stages, photography possessed an exceptional level of artistic refinement, as exemplified by the work of Gisèle Freund. Photography has the potential to reveal both the visible and invisible aspects of family sociology, shedding light on the roles we expect individuals to fulfill and the emotional realities and complexities that underpin their lived experiences.

In his introduction titled "Unknown Faces/ Redeeming Structures," Daniel Mendelsohn explores these profound questions. By creating a corpus of fixed black and white images, each composed within a large 5 x 7 frame, the photographer achieves an anthropological scope that transcends mere representation. By placing the subject at a palpable distance, the photographer objectifies them, creating a unique perspective on the family.

These seemingly impassive faces and their mesmerizing gazes evoke a range of emotions and interpretations. The postures adopted by the individuals, whether seated or standing, further contribute to the enigmatic nature of the portraits. What transpires within these families, both within and outside the frame, remains a subject of contemplation and reflection.

The use of a rigid protocol in all portrait sessions adds an intriguing dimension to the photographs. It encourages viewers to engage in introspection, contemplating the nuances and complexities of each family's dynamic. Inspired by the work of Bernd and Hilla Becher, known for their esthetics of objectivity and minimalism, Isabelle has sought to capture the essence of family relationships through her portraits.

Through her lens, Isabelle aims to capture the subtleties and nuances of family interactions, emphasizing the connections and bonds that unite individuals within a household. Her photographs evoke a sense of warmth and familiarity, inviting viewers to explore the emotional tapestry of these families.

In conclusion, photography has evolved from a mere tool for capturing images to a powerful medium that enables us to understand and explore the intricacies of family sociology. By capturing portraits of individuals and families, photography provides a window into the emotional realities and complexities of lived life. Through the work of artists like Isabelle, we are able to gain a deeper appreciation for the roles we expect individuals to play and the emotional nuances that underpin their experiences. Photography serves as a catalyst for reflection and introspection, encouraging us to consider the broader societal implications of family dynamics and the impact they have on our individual lives.

Weight: 864g
Dimension: 248 x 307 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9782490952052