In class we were given the opportunity to look at several artists that often use photography as a popular medium. Such artists include Gregory Crewdson, Jeff Wall, and Cindy Sherman. Although they use the same medium, their work, of course, was very distinctive. They all appear to look at different aspects of human emotion, interaction, and intrigue.
Gregory Crewdson looks at a very dark side of human behavior. In his early work, he focused on animals and nature while still highlighting that humans do not acknowledge certain aspects of life. Similarly in his later work, people are not involved with understanding other life, or fully understanding their own. In focuses are the darker moments of human life where we seem isolated and confused in our own world.
Jeff Wall is more intimate with his photographic scenes. He appears to be capturing moments, whether active or not, of normal human emotions which appear to include racism, homelessness, disdain, etc.
Cindy Sherman, whose work started in the 70's, has a wonderful understanding of lines and textures as they appear on film, especially considering digital retouching was not yet available at the start of her career. Her images seem empowering, especially for women, and has the potential to glorify a mundane moment without being overpowering.
Collectively I feel they have all captured something more than ordinary human activity, but moments, expressions, or impressive emotions.
