Zdzislaw Beksinski
The artist/photographer Zdzislaw Beksinski is someone who I am a fan of. The work he produced has been called Dystopian Surrealism though his photography is quite different from his art. One thing I like about his photography in particular is his use of contrast in a black and white medium, which conveys powerful images through the use of lighting alone.
There are 2 photos that me produced that inspire me in particular. The 1st one (non of Zdzislaw’s works are titled) depicts an old man, with his head slightly bowing, his face completely shrouded in darkness. We can only see the top of head and the tips of his ears. The wrinkles on his head reflect a man with many experiences in his life. The use of space is interesting, as the contrast of light and dark in the background creates another dimension.
The 2nd photo which I find inspiring is one of multiple hands reaching out with a woman’s face, open mouthed, appearing in the background. His use of perspective is interesting as well as the way he lays images, I like the technique he used for the layering of the hands. The hands and the expression of the woman in the background, which illustrates her calling out to the darkness. It seems to symbolize a cry for help. The artist himself said that there’s no meaning to his work, but there are various similarities and reoccurring elements in his work.
Andre Kertesz
Andre Kertesz is another photographer whose works I enjoy. His work is known for their bizarre camera angles and use of shadows. His photos are monochromatic. He started off his photography career by taking photos of his military life, but he became known for his personal style of photography. He was known as a still life photographer, but his compositions give them a abstract vibe.
This piece is entitled “Clock of the Académie Françoise, Paris”. It shows off a multitude of people going on with their lives like a still life photo. The photo was taken from inside the Académie Francoise building, the framing of the clock makes the photo look more abstract.
This photo was taken in Poughkeepsie, New York (the photo was named after the location it was taken in). It was taken at train station is in an overhead shot. I like this photo, because it shows off Kertesz’ hallmarks in this photo from being of people getting on with their lives to Kertesz’ style of photography with the monochrome, use of shadows and use of perspective.