Diane Arbus is one photographer that I ususally
cringe at her work. She focuses on the marginal places and people that society
labels “freak show,” “weird,” “gross,” and “unacceptable.” Her technique with
head on flash and harsh, ugly lighting adds to the awkwardness of her images. Diane
Arbus’ goal is to beautify the ugly and confront society about their judgmental,
labeling mentality.
Art critic Suzan Sontag even wrote that Diane
Arbus was unsuccessful with her photographs because it made the images harder
to look at, than to be admired and awed at.
I am on the fence with Diane Arbus, but I do
think she is a photographer to be recognized. She is courageous and stays true
to herself. She is confident in her work and follows her arrow to make her
point heard. Looking at some of Diane Arbus’ work, I feel the need to look
away, which is something society has taught me… If you don’t like it or it
makes you uncomfortable turn away or close your eyes. That is something to be admired because Diane
Arbus opens windows to places her viewers have never been.
She is absolutely passionate about her subjects
and the love she has for her work and morals is clear in her images.
I know I already shared a similar blog about 10
Things Gary Winogrand can teach us, but I think this article about Diane Arbus
has some awesome points to consider in photography as well.
Cheers
Chelsea
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