"These images do not dwell in the modern world, but rather exist in a timeless place where the ages collide"
(http://www.ethertongallery.com).
Joel-Peter Witkin is well known for his photographs of absurd objects, such as fetus's and body parts as well as the 'freaks' of the world that question your morals as a viewer. In his photo "Reality is an Invention Balthus" created in 2008, there are several different scenes that fill up the frame. The whole image is dark and has scratches through it, it makes it look old, slightly vintage.
I was drawn to this image because to me, it looks like a circus. It is chaotic and random. The textures and colors of the clothing and wall paper help to create this circus feel, Or maybe it is more of a 'freak show'. The characters in this photo are odd and creepy, which is what had appeal to me. All the little details, such as the dead cat or scratches, make this photo interesting to look at. You can look at it for a long time, just to notice all the detail he has put into this photo. I honestly have no idea what the intention of this photograph is. To different people it could have different meanings.
Interesting photo. This is a good example of Witkin's work rolling around with art historical references.
ReplyDeleteThe title, referring to Balthus, actually gives pretty direct references in this image. Check out Balthus' "Joan Miró and His Daughter Dolores"
http://www.moma.org/collection/artist.php?artist_id=317
I agree that what he is doing here is almost like a circus, but it is interesting when considering the artits he is quoting - what the subtexts in this work really art. Balthus made some pretty weird paintings (and explicit ones) - which could be the quote in itself.