First photographs
My intern Grace and I have finally got our scanner functioning (it was sent from Canada and took its sweet time to get here). We’re having fun starting to scan the participants first photographs, though again the challenge when posting them here is anonymity. I love that I can show you they are really starting to understand we are trying to photograph how this life feels, rather than just what it looks like. Bell’s lips are undeniably sexual; pink and pursed, but with a hint of sullenness. Morgan’s plate of steaming breakfast really conjures up how good a hot free meal is when its cold and you have no home, or no money to buy food. Bek’s self portrait is dark, and shadowy and in it I see the depression and anxiety she wrestles with, her pouch of White Ox, she tells me, is what she smokes when she is really desperate. Which is often.
I especially love the two portraits. They are so moody and have this deep sense of isolation.
Yeah, I love them too. There is something so haunting about that image of B. They are working so hard on this project, I am so proud of their bravery and willingness to experiment.
it’s funny how you associate tobacco brands with sub-cultures or social cliques.
I have a strong association of Champion Ruby and “alternative” people … and White Ox is definitely one associated with those living on a different fringe of society … ex-cons for the most part. I associate its smell with hardship
The lips one speaks volumes, great photo!
Wow, Gem. I can see your style creeping through in these pictures. Amazing.