I've started a little project that I am enjoying immensely.
I stumbled across a cash of old portraits taken of Swedish men in the early 1900's. For some reason, unbeknownst to me, I have become fascinated by these men and the lives they lived. I love the character etched into their faces. I love the lines and creases and angles of their cheeks.
All these men were laborers of varying sorts. They must have worked hard during their life. I stole them from their dark back drop and have given them joyful surroundings. I think it changes how you see them. I think it allows their countenance to transcend their position.
As I have worked on each portrait, I have created a sort of one-sided relationship with each man. They may not be the people I imagine them to be at all, but I will never know. It's neither here nor there.
I am currently half way through this project. There are twelve portraits. I have finished the first six that are below. I have given their name and occupation.
I'm not sure what I will do with them once the project is complete. I'm not even sure why I feel so driven to complete it. It's been a little like escaping into a really good book. The characters follow you throughout your day and you can't wait to find time to pick up the book again to see what will happen next.
In Sweden there are two words for grandfather: Your mothers father is called "Morfar" Your father's father is called "Farfar".
I stumbled across a cash of old portraits taken of Swedish men in the early 1900's. For some reason, unbeknownst to me, I have become fascinated by these men and the lives they lived. I love the character etched into their faces. I love the lines and creases and angles of their cheeks.
All these men were laborers of varying sorts. They must have worked hard during their life. I stole them from their dark back drop and have given them joyful surroundings. I think it changes how you see them. I think it allows their countenance to transcend their position.
As I have worked on each portrait, I have created a sort of one-sided relationship with each man. They may not be the people I imagine them to be at all, but I will never know. It's neither here nor there.
I am currently half way through this project. There are twelve portraits. I have finished the first six that are below. I have given their name and occupation.
I'm not sure what I will do with them once the project is complete. I'm not even sure why I feel so driven to complete it. It's been a little like escaping into a really good book. The characters follow you throughout your day and you can't wait to find time to pick up the book again to see what will happen next.
Lars Erik Pettersson: Miner
Anders Wedin: Postman
Carl Bohlin: Carpenter
Karl Oskar Lööw: Crofter
Ollas Per Persson: Yeoman
Stumble It!
