In an era of Instagram and selfies, it’s easy to forget the artistry that goes into photography. However, several new projects in the world of visual arts are reminding us just how powerful and moving photography can be.
One such project is “An-My Lê: On Contested Terrain,” which was recently on display at the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston. The exhibition features photographs taken by Vietnamese-American artist An-My Lê, who spent years documenting military training exercises across America. Through her lens, we see soldiers marching through forests, firing weapons on beaches, and rappelling down cliffs. These images are both beautiful and haunting; they remind us of the human cost of war while also showcasing the majesty of our natural surroundings.
Another compelling project is “The Forgiven Places” by photographer Susan Meiselas. This series explores sites where atrocities have occurred throughout history–from concentration camps to lynching trees–and captures them as they appear today. In doing so, Meiselas asks viewers to consider what these places represent and how we can learn from them. By showing us both the beauty and horror that coexist within these landscapes, she encourages us to confront our pasts honestly.
Meanwhile, “The Guardian & Observer’s 20 Photographers for 2020” showcases some of the most exciting new talent emerging in contemporary photography. From Richard Mosse’s surreal portraits featuring a pink-hued landscape to Juno Calypso’s eerie self-portraits exploring femininity and desire, this diverse group offers something for every taste.
Finally, there is “Black Refractions: Highlights from The Studio Museum in Harlem,” which celebrates over eight decades of work by Black artists across multiple mediums (including photography). Amongst its many highlights are Carrie Mae Weems’ iconic series “Kitchen Table,” which depicts intimate moments between a Black woman (played by Weems herself) and her family; Deana Lawson’s lush and sensual portraits of Black bodies; and Dawoud Bey’s powerful images of young Black men in urban environments. This exhibition is a testament to the richness and diversity of Black creativity, both past and present.
What these projects all have in common is an ability to make us see the world anew. They remind us that photography is not just about capturing pretty pictures–it’s a means of exploring our surroundings, connecting with others, and reflecting on our collective history. Whether you’re interested in war, social justice, or simply beautiful imagery, there’s something for everyone in the world of contemporary photography.
Overall, these new projects demonstrate that photography remains a vibrant medium capable of eliciting strong emotions and engaging viewers on multiple levels. As we continue to grapple with complex issues such as race relations, climate change, and global conflict, it’s more important than ever to turn to artists who can help us see things from different perspectives–and there are few mediums better suited for this task than photography. So next time you’re scrolling through Instagram or taking a selfie, take a moment to appreciate the artistry behind this powerful medium–and seek out some of the many exciting new projects happening in visual arts today.