Mixed Doubles: A Personal Project Black and white studio portraits of pairs - people connected by birth, marriage, business, social, and other ties.
I have photographed pairs in various situations including a Jersey City nursing home; in Red Hook, a Brooklyn community; for a mentoring program; and at various social occasions. I see the series as a cataloging of all sorts of pairs rather than one that investigates a specific attachment. The only information provided is the type of pairing. The studio setup, which is portable, is an integral part of the project. The created environment adds a celebrity-like atmosphere to the sessions as it is a situation most people are not likely to encounter. The starkness of the imagery also supports the cataloging nature of the project. Spectators are welcome, and after observing, frequently decide to participate. Subsequent to the picture-taking, a reception is held for display and distribution of the photos. Each person receives a copy of their picture. While we must all define ourselves as individuals we do not exist in isolation. Our pairings - whether chosen, given, or assigned - define who we are as individuals as well as form the basis of our more complex social structures. Thus, at its most personal level, the project enables participants to examine the range of partnerships that shape their lives. Further subtexts of the series explore gender relations and life cycles. The series explores our customs and rituals and celebrates our cultural similarities and differences.
Friends
Friends
Father in law & Son-in-Law
Father in law & Son-in-Law
Fraternal Twins
Fraternal Twins
Assistant & Photographer
Assistant & Photographer
Mentor & Mentee
Mentor & Mentee
Nursing Home Resident & Daughter
Nursing Home Resident & Daughter
Big Brother & Little Sister
Big Brother & Little Sister
Art Dealer & Artist
Art Dealer & Artist
Bingo Buddies
Bingo Buddies
Married Nursing Home Residents
Married Nursing Home Residents
Father & Son
Father & Son
Mother & Babysitter
Mother & Babysitter
Artist Collaborators
Artist Collaborators
Stepfather & Father
Stepfather & Father
Gal Pals
Gal Pals
Physical Therapist & Nurse
Physical Therapist & Nurse
Sculptor Buddies
Sculptor Buddies
Roommates
Roommates
Newlyweds
Newlyweds
Artist & Art
Artist & Art
Sisters in law
Sisters in law
back to top