Drew Tal

Behind the Mask

2016

Artist Drew Tal explores concepts of identity through photography and digital media. With digital tools, he introduces texture and painterly details to his works, adding depth and character, and ultimately strengthening the context of each photograph. Tal’s figures are front and center — they’re typically set against black backdrops or other neutral tones in order to draw a viewer’s focus solely toward his subject, which is the human face.

Tal’s art celebrates the cultural and ethnic diversity of people everywhere — depicting subjects in the regalia and garb of their heritage. He presents them with sensitivity and respect, drawing out visual and spiritual beauty in every depiction. 

Tal was born Dror Toledano in Haifa, Israel. He attended Bosmat Technion technical school, studying architecture, engineering and interior design. In 1976 he joined the Israeli Defense Force and served as a tank commander until 1979. Tal grew enamored with the rich variety of religions, cultures and customs that he encountered over the years, and owing to his being a part of a richly diverse society, he couldn't help but pivot from being merely curious about his environment to creating art that reflected it.

In 1981, Tal moved to New York and entered the fashion industry. He worked for a time as a makeup artist, then moved into working as a manager and designer for Lynda Joy Couture, which ultimately propelled him into fashion photography. Tal worked as a freelance fashion photographer until 2005, when he began focusing on photographic art. 

Represented by three galleries — Emmanuel Fremin Gallery in New York, Turner Carroll Gallery in Santa Fe and Mark Hachem Gallery in Paris — Tal has exhibited worldwide and has enjoyed a level of exposure that few artists experience. He continues to produce stunning photographic art, working between New York City, Miami Beach and Nice, France.

Find original Drew Tal photography on 1stDibs.