In the heart of London's art scene, renowned photographer Oli Kellert unveils his latest exhibition, "Waiting for the Signal," at HackelBury Fine Art's Kellert gallery. This collection celebrates the serene stillness and contemplative thoughts of individuals navigating life's crossroads, captured in breathtaking black-and-white cityscapes.
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The exhibition showcases a diverse range of urban scenes, from a lone street cleaner in Boston, basking under an eerily empty thoroughfare, to a bustling Chicago intersection, where individuals of all ages ponder their next move, reflected in the sheen of a nearby building.
The inspiration for this series traces back to Oli Kellert's desire to express his thoughts on the 2016 U.S. election. He introduced the "Crossroads Blues" series with a provocative snapshot on Hope Street, Los Angeles, which showcased Barack Obama's iconic "Hope" poster, reflecting the political climate of the time.
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Despite initial political intentions, the series evolved to focus on the personal struggles and reflections people experience at urban crossroads. "It's not about politics, it's about the personal," Kellert observed.
The photography project spanned several U.S. cities, with sites like Phoenix, Atlanta, and Seattle serving as backdrops for the compelling portraits. Kellert's use of grid-like street layouts and diverse inner-city settings underscores the narrative of everyday life in the heart of the city.
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Kellert's dedication to authenticity is evident in his refusal to stage any of his photos, allowing the city itself to set the mood and stage the scene.
In fact, the use of dramatic lighting and cinematic landscapes adds a layer of allure to the overall urban aesthetic, as if moments frozen in time.
As the series takes viewers from the bustling U.S. streets to the spirited streets of Rio de Janeiro, Kellert captures a man in a near-biblical pose, proving that even in the chaos of the city, serenity and reflection can be found.
Insightful Tidbits
- An in-depth exploration of Oli Kellert's photos uncovers subtle inspirations from the black African American street art/photography tradition.
- The documentary style of Oli Kellert's work preserves authenticity by capturing the everyday lives and reflections of individuals in urban settings.
- Kellert's focus on human experiences in cityscapes celebrates the diversity and richness of urban life, resonating with broader global art traditions.
Oli Kellert's photography series at HackelBury Fine Art's Kellert gallery invites viewers to step into the world of urban life and reflect on the quiet strength of everyday existence.
