Non-Portraits 9-1
by Jean-sébastien Monzani (Switzerland)

The “non-portraits” project combines non-narrative experimental photoseries where the human figure is represented without using the face as the main vector of expressivity. These collaborations with actors or dancers often get their inspiration from performing arts. Therefore, “non-portrait” doesn’t mean that the human figure disappears: what interests me here is rather its interaction with an environment. There is no storyline, and no symbolism as in conventional dance.

The non-conventional body postures that don’t seem to reproduce any specific social situation challenges the viewer. “What is happening here?” is the question one might ask. This freedom of interpretation is a key element in this work. Nothing is “right” or “wrong”. It is more important to feel than to understand – and to have fun doing so.