Box 2 - Figures Studied

Curated by - Roula Seikaly & David Johnson

Project Statement

A staple photographic subject since the medium's debut, the human body has never been a neutral topic. In the 21st century, the same aesthetic, political, and commercial forces brought to bear on the photographed body historically are all in play and profoundly complicated by pervasive social media.

Figures Studied offers an approachable view of the body in a fine art photographic context. Digitally native students who may be unsure or uncomfortable looking at or making work that includes nudity will experience wide ranging practices and motivations by distinguished contemporary makers: Jess T. Dugan's Look at me like you love me drives home the power of seeing-and being seen-by others; Time As We Know It, Marna Clarke's account of love and aging; The Size of a Grapefruit, Eva Woolridge's reckoning with medical carelessness and the importance of self care. 

PSfA's second portfolio, Figures Studied, is anchored by a vintage Diane Arbus print that was generously donated by the Family of Sue Peterson Gauthier and Scott Gauthier.