Honorable Mention
Presence, a State of Mind
DESCRIPTION
A photograph of Jude who has dark skin. What does being described as person of color mean? Does it mean you are only as much as your color? What if people don't notice you because of your dark skin? What do you do to get noticed, draw attention on yourself? How to become visible as a person, a unique individual? With this photograph I try to break the mould of representing people with dark skin in a purely macho way and invite the viewer to really look at the person that is in front of them. I want to invite them to want to know more about this individual, become curious and arouse and interest in someone who may be different than you. AUTHOR
BA photography: Fotoacademie, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, 2015 - 2019. Dermatology Resident, Erasmus University, Rotterdam, The Netherlands, 1988-1992
Med school: Erasmus University, Rotterdam, The Netherlands, 1979-1986
I am a Dutch Fine Art photographer and former dermatologist, based in The Netherlands and I create classical Fine Art portraits and Still lifes, by combining beautiful use of light with references to symbolism, religion, art, and history. In my works I intertwine personal stories and emotions of the models with past experiences as a medical doctor. I explore ways to portray humanity in a different way, by giving space to expressing an inner life, one that is kept hidden and giving it significance and legitimacy.
By creating aesthetically pleasing compositions and powerful, yet somewhat mysterious imagery, I can connect a dark and sometimes disturbing past to the present with subtlety and great sensitivity. There are things unrevealed, stirring underneath the surface and giving the viewer a glimpse of the darkness within, evoking feelings of longing, escape and might-have-beens. The imagery is intended to challenge the viewer with social constructs that are centered around masculinity and femininity, and they transcend the individual story and reflect on what is happening around us.
I am a strong advocate of diversity and inclusivity. In my artworks, I use the bodies of my models as a mirror of our time, provoking social codes and conventions and revealing a deeper truth by raising questions.
