Semi Contemporary Constructed Reality Photographer: Aurthur Tress

Flyind Dream, New York

Biography and Significance

Arthur Tress was born in Brooklyn, New York in November 1940. At the age of twelve, he took his first photograph, focusing on the rundown building and circus freak of the Coney Island Amusement park. Later he attended Bard College where he studied art and received his B.F.A in 1962. Afterwards, he traveled to Paris for film school, but left before graduating. He ended up traveling the world, finally lading a job as a photographer for a museum in Stockholm, Sweden.

Stephen Brecht, Bride and Groom, New York

In 1968 he returned to New York and continued his work as a photographer. Since then, he has done several exhibitions and is featured in museums around the world. Today, he lives in Cambria, California.

Spinal Tap, New York

  Composition

This image uses a heavy amount of contrast with the light hallway and dark subject. He uses the human spine as focal point and point of emphasis within the scene.

Motivation

I believe that based on the subjects position, and the exposed spine, this image is meant to represent some kind of struggle. Possible a struggle to find strength within oneself—the proverbial “Backbone.”

Method

I believe that the photographer used regular fluorescent lighting to stay true to the context of the scene. The lighting is placed in front of the subject for a darkened effect. The image of the spine was probably added later.

Opinion

I love how perfectly the spine matches the subject’s positioning. It makes me wonder if spine came first of the pose came first. I also enjoy the context of the image. I get the feeling that I’m in some kind of creepy hospital. The subjects position also adds a sense of unease.