Tanya Marcuse

Woven Nº27

2017

O'brian's staged photographs masterfully balance organic forms with the geometric structure of books, vases, and other objects. The simplicity of the setting highlights the vibrant s...

O'brian's staged photographs masterfully balance organic forms with the geometric structure of books, vases, and other objects. The simplicity of the setting highlights the vibrant subtleties of the flowers, creating an appealing tension. These compositions invite the viewer to explore themes of balance and contrast, through a delicate but imposing presentation. Michael James O’Brien draws inspiration from his diverse roles as a photographer, poet, and activist. His work often intersects with themes of identity, social justice, and cultural commentary. O'Brien produced a diverse body of photographic work, from still lifes and portraits to art documentation. He still uses film and works in medium and large formats. His themes are not classical, the artist prefers to portray extraordiary beuty, transgender people and still lifes. The artist's images have a sense of discovery and loss; absence and presence. From the Series Opalina Archival Pigment prints Printed on Hahnemuhle Photo Rag paper Dimension for each print is 22 in. H x 17 in. W (The overall size composition of the entire portfolio is: 66 in. H x 51 in. W) Limited Edition of 20 + 2AP All these photos are digital Still Life Photographs 1. Still life with Two Opalina Vases and Two Tulips, Antwerp, 2013 2. Still life with a Turquoise Opalina Vase and a Tulip Bulb, Antwerp, 2011 3. Still life with a White Tulip and a Green Opalina Vase, Antwerp, 2012 4. Still Life with Tulips and 5 Opalina Vases, Antwerp, 2012 5. Still life with Books...