2004-2010
Image Source: http://andreaslaszlokonrath.com/story.php?id=4
I enjoy discovering new art and
Konrath’s work was found by chance after a succession of internet links [1]
all connected by the world wide web but every HTML unique in its code. Like the
human race, we are all made up of different genetic codes but all belong to the
same species. Celebrating differences and uniqueness is a popular subject
amongst modern artists including Konrath’s ‘My Generation’ series. Like many
photographers before him he has adopted this style of a plain white background,
studio style set up and opted for black-and-white portraiture, reminiscent of
Richard Avedon and David Bailey. Despite being relatively unknown Konrath
embodies youthfulness and instead of having the privilege to shoot celebrities
focuses on shooting his own generation and their distinct style. Like Scott
Schuman states in ‘The Sartorialist’: ‘That is why young
people, or the young at heart, are those that inspire or move fashion forward.
They are still struggling to find themselves: ‘Am I a rocker? A footballer? Or
a little bit of both?’ These contra-dictions produce the most interesting
looks’. [2] Konrath shoots beautiful, sincere portraits
of his young generation showcasing the diversity. ‘Sheryl, 2007’ (above) is
particularly engaging as I am first intrigued by her ethnicity however I don’t
believe this is the main focus; her individuality is what Konrath is trying to
show rather than her representing a whole race; she is being photographed
representing herself only. The tattoo on her shoulder adds to the uniqueness of
her character and her fresh face shows she isn’t hiding behind a mask of
make-up. Looking through ‘My Generation’ has been inspiring and I enjoy
realizing different styles to emphasize individuality within a similar age
group. I also like the ‘grunge’ effect on the borders making the ‘clean’ images
smudged with imperfection. This reflects youth where many people make mistakes
and are learning. Not only does this series look at youth but the beauty
within. I believe this portraits are very beautiful as they’re simply shot and
captures people as they are, natural.
[Left – right]
1. Max, 2006 / 2. Sean, 2006
/ 3.Vala, 2010 / 4.Erin, 2008
References:
1. Discovered on http://www.nutopiaforum.com/magazine.html [accessed 06/05/12], an online magazine showcasing photography from emerging artists created by Platon, renowned for his portrait photographs of well-known world figures. His work has featured on magazine covers such as Time, Rolling Stone and Esquire.
2. Schuman, Scott; ‘The Sartorialist’; published: Penguin (Sep 3 2009)
Useful Links:
Andreas Laszlo Konrath http://andreaslaszlokonrath.com/index.php
Check out my Sept 2010 post on my blog M.A.S.H on Scott Schuman: http://mashthings.blogspot.co.uk/2010/09/photograph-of-day-on-street-oxford-st.html?zx=e330694b695153c2
The Sartorialist http://www.thesartorialist.com/
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