Perfecting the Post Modern Gaze

Regarding contemporary photography, much has been written about the purposeful construction of photographs, and the photographers role in controlling its message. Post modern imagery can be quite effective when it rejects established modes of self expression that rely on realism to convey how we see the world. There's a lot of exciting new imagery that now exists because of the willingness of contemporary practitioners who are breaking with the established approaches of representational photography. This has challenged traditionalists, who take umbrage with the misrepresentation of what they consider to be a true photograph, both visually and intellectually. Because modernists seek out photograph subject matter that is visually interesting and recurrently remarkable, contemporary trends often rely on symbolic imagery that rejects these ideals, and seeks to construct photographs that often relate to the banal or disconnected.

The advent of technology has made access to this imagery unprecedented in our lifetime. Because of this, the influence of style and technique has become widespread, and as a result, subject matter has become a bit homogeneous and predictable. This is true of any genre of photography, where imitation is the most sincere form of flattery. With access to so much photography, it's hard not to inadvertently borrow while being continually inundated with repetitive subject matter that borrows from familiar themes. This was equally true of those studying modern photography, and whether purposely or not, began to photograph in similar styles. This is a natural process, and will continue to be, as long as new art movements trend towards developing new aesthetics.

As of late, there seems to be a reoccurring theme in regards to subjects being postured in what could be referred to as the "post modern gaze." I'm not sure how this evolved, but I'm beginning to notice it everywhere. It's as if a scripted criteria were created, with guidelines that need to be closely followed in order for it to be considered relevant or contemporary. To work the gaze to perfection requires the subject to stand with arms at side, shoulders slumped, head slanted downward, and most importantly, a dumbfounded look that effectively emotes feelings of emptiness and solitude. As mentioned earlier, themes of  banality and disconnect are commonplace, and I'm pretty sure that trying to interpret these emotions from a fresh perspective is a daunting task. There are some beautiful photographs that effectively use this pose to make well composed photographs; but it begs the question, what are they all staring at?

©Alex Crety Systermans

©Nick Graham

©Jen Davis

©Amy Stein