Miguel Rio Branco interview

Thank you John for the link. I try to find as much as possible about 3 photographers Rio Branco, Sergio Larrain and Lu-Nan (not an easy task) Peace

that he recovered from the destruction of most of his life’s work (the B/W) stuff is enough to point (at least for me) how we should indeed consider and reconcile ourselves to what we all too often think of as the “importance” of our work and all that…

dont agree with all he said, but have always admired his individuality his “monochromtic” gorgeous color and the strength and perspective after all that burned in sao paolo….and his boxer has always stuck inside me like a blunt instrument from one of my own nightwaking dreams….profound, gorgeous and hypnotic, just as the sadness of our waking lives…

thanks john for pointing out…

b

That man, Rio Branco, is a master photographer of the highest caliber. Sumptuous and poetic in the extreme.

The following quote strikes me: “To me Art is a question of: first, having something to say from the inside that has nothing to do with description of reality, reality being just the material thing that the camera captures. So for this question I must say that I always focus on the images I want to SHOW, not necessarily to see, some of those images I would even want NOT to see. I do create images that, when related to others in specific constructions, make sense, create rhythms and bring emotions to the surface.”

As for me, I want my pictures to be regarded as a straight document, akin to crime scene photos, letting the evidence speak for itself. That’s why no matter how I love looking at all those B/W photos by great photographers living and dead, I cannot do it myself. In spite of his artistic stand, I have a deep appreciation for Rio-Branco’s work and as a matter of fact I often review his images when in need of inspiration.

Hi Alex
there is a book made here in China from Lu-Nan a big project on mental health, for sure the best ever project on mental health in China, amazing photography. You can view some of his photos in Magnum. Old photos tough but really amazing project. As well his story on catholics very deep. I dont think you can find the book outside china, even here is quite hard.
d.