American Staged Art Photography Of The 1970s: Capturing the Essence of Reality

When it comes to the field of photography, one decade stood out for its significant impact on the art form - the 1970s. In particular, American staged art photography during this era brought a unique and exciting perspective to the table. Through innovative techniques and thought-provoking compositions, photographers challenged traditional notions of reality and created captivating visual narratives that continue to resonate today.

The Rise of Staged Photography

The 1970s marked a turning point for photography as artists began to embrace staged scenarios. Unlike traditional documentary photography, staged art photography deviated from capturing reality as it presented the world through constructed scenes. Artists manipulated the environment and directed the subjects, blurring the line between fact and fiction. This unconventional approach allowed photographers to delve into concepts of storytelling, symbolism, and personal expression.

One of the central figures in American staged art photography was Cindy Sherman. Known for her iconic self-portraits, Sherman crafted meticulously constructed scenes that explored gender roles, stereotypes, and identity. Through her work, she challenged the viewer to question preconceived notions and invited them to engage in a dialogue about the complexities of society.

Impure Vision: American Staged Art Photography of the 1970s

by Abigail Rine Favale (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	31066 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	177 pages
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The Concept of Reality Through a Staged Lens

Staged art photography allowed artists to bend reality, creating images that were both intriguing and thought-provoking. By directing the scene and manipulating the elements within the frame, photographers had the power to create unique narratives that questioned our understanding of the world.

This concept can be seen in the work of renowned photographer Gregory Crewdson. His large-scale cinematic images meticulously staged suburban life, evoking a sense of mystery and emotion. Crewdson's photographs often featured ordinary, everyday scenes with a twist - whether it was an individual floating in mid-air or a house engulfed in flames. These surreal elements added depth and ambiguity to his images, leaving viewers captivated by the enigmatic stories they conveyed.

Breaking Boundaries with Color and Conceptualization

American staged art photography of the 1970s also explored new territories in terms of color and conceptualization. Artists sought to challenge traditional photographic aesthetics, incorporating vivid hues and abstract compositions into their work.

One prominent photographer who experimented with color and form was William Eggleston. Often referred to as the "godfather of color photography," Eggleston pushed boundaries by capturing mundane subjects in vibrant and vivid colors. His images transformed everyday scenes, such as parking lots or interiors, into aesthetically compelling works of art. Through his unique approach, Eggleston transformed the way we perceive and appreciate color in photography.

Legacy and Enduring Influence

The impact of American staged art photography during the 1970s is undeniable. By embracing staged scenarios, artists were able to challenge conventional norms and create captivating visual narratives. Their work opened up new possibilities and forever shaped the trajectory of photography as an art form.

Even today, we continue to see the influence of staged art photography in contemporary practices. Artists around the world draw inspiration from the techniques and concepts pioneered during this era. They continue to explore the boundaries of reality and storytelling, pushing the medium to new and exciting heights.

In

American staged art photography of the 1970s truly captured the essence of reality through its innovative staging techniques and captivating compositions. By challenging traditional notions and pushing boundaries, photographers created thought-provoking images that continue to resonate with audiences today. Their work has left an indelible mark on the field of photography and serves as an everlasting source of inspiration for future generations.

Impure Vision: American Staged Art Photography of the 1970s

by Abigail Rine Favale (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	31066 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	177 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

American staged art photography is the focus of this unique, in-depth study. Offering a new methodological strategy for viewing photographs, this fascinating account analyzes the work of four of the leading names in this new genre—Les Krims, Duane Michals, Arthur Tress, and Lucas Samaras—and applies new perspectives to 1970s art photography. As it sheds fresh light on the four artists’ critiques of purist ideals, it also looks closely at their efforts to transcend the limitations of the purely visual effect of photography. Not only does this book tell the history of American staged photography in broad terms by drawing on theories and methods new to the field, but it also presents the latest approaches to photography history and theory.