Zone Eleven

Zone Eleven is a book of Ansel Adams images that challenge the audience's expectation of "the iconic Ansel Adams nature photograph." It is the product of Mike Mandel's research of over 50,000 Adams images from four different archives, presenting a body of work that was unknown until now. The book responds to issues of social relations, the built environment, and alienation, selecting images that do not fit the traditional expectation of Adams' work.

Format: Hardback
Length: 112 pages
Publication date: 14 October 2021
Publisher: Damiani

Zone Eleven is a captivating concept that draws inspiration from Ansel Adams' renowned Zone System, a technique employed to meticulously control the exposure of negatives in photography, resulting in a remarkable range of tonalities in the final photographic print. This system spans from the deepest black of Zone 0 to the brightest highlight of Zone 10, creating a visual symphony that captures the essence of nature's beauty.

However, Zone Eleven takes this idea to a whole new level. It is a metaphor coined by artist Mike Mandel during his ambitious endeavor to create a book of Adams photographs that extends beyond his personal work. Mandel's quest led him to delve into the archives of his commercial and editorial assignments, as well as his exploration of the new Polaroid material of the time. What he uncovered was a treasure trove of unexpected images that shed light on Adams' artistic journey in ways never before seen.

To bring these hidden gems to life, Mandel has meticulously curated a collection of over 50,000 Adams images from four distinct archives. The result is a breathtaking body of work that has been previously unknown to the public. Zone Eleven is a testament to Mandel's tireless research and dedication to preserving Adams' legacy.

In addition to his expertise in curation, Mike Mandel is renowned for his collaborative work with another prominent artist, Larry Sultan, during the 1970s and 1990s. Together, they published "Evidence" in 1977, a groundbreaking collection of 59 photographs meticulously chosen from a staggering two million images viewed at government agencies and tech-oriented corporations. Conceptually, Zone Eleven can be seen as a companion book to "Evidence." Just as "Evidence" reframes the institutional documentary photograph with new context and meaning, Zone Eleven responds to the audience's expectation of the iconic Ansel Adams nature photograph. However, Mandel takes a different approach, selecting images that defy that expectation and offer a fresh perspective on Adams' work.

Zone Eleven is a book that delves into the social relations, the built environment, and alienation, all themes that were central to Adams' artistic vision. The images featured in this collection are thought-provoking and evocative, challenging the viewer to contemplate the world around them in new and profound ways. Whether it's a serene landscape or a close-up of a human face, each photograph in Zone Eleven possesses a unique power to communicate and connect.

In conclusion, Zone Eleven is a remarkable achievement that showcases the immense talent and creativity of Mike Mandel. By expanding the boundaries of Adams' work and presenting a collection of unexpected images, Mandel has created a masterpiece that pays homage to the legendary photographer while offering a fresh perspective on his legacy. This book is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the power of photography to capture the essence of life and inspire thought.

Weight: 886g
Dimension: 236 x 288 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9788862087483