Aesthetica selects five must-see photography exhibitions. From large-scale architectural studies to sensitive portraits, these collections offer conceptual responses to contemporary life.
Spaces of Enlightenment, Kukje Gallery, Seoul
Recording the overlooked grandeur of public spaces, Candida Höfer’s (b. 1944) atmospheric oeuvre offers a new perspective on cultural institutions. Each monumental composition is devoid of human presence, providing unparalleled views of architectural structures. Until 26 August.
Jacques Henri Lartigue… C’est Chic!, Michael Hoppen Gallery, London
Two exhibitions at Michael Hoppen Gallery celebrate the work of Jacques Henri Lartigue (1894-1986) from 1950-1970. The shows bring together spontaneous yet highly curated snapshots, capturing a sense of joy, individuality and paradise. Until 31 August.
Image Profile: Aspects of Documentary, Museum für Moderne Kunst Frankfurt
MMK’s show highlights artworks that reinterpret media imagery, demonstrating how information networks shape perceptions in the digital age. Reflecting on political narratives, works by practitioners such as Thomas Demand, David Claerbout and Larry Clark offer illusionistic portrayals. Until 29 July.
Being: New Photography 2018, Museum of Modern Art, New York
MoMA invites 17 global artists to explore issues of individuality through photography. Questioning the veracity of images by investigating ideas of truth and fiction, Being takes the physicality of the human body as its starting point, delving into multi-layered notions of personhood. Until 19 August.
Michael Wolf: Insidious, La Galerie Particulière, Paris
Documenting the formal structure of the built environment, Michael Wolf’s (b. 1954) practice uncovers the complexities – and anonymity – of life in the metropolis. This show offers a unique visual perspective on the architectural landscape, investigating major cities through an abstracted approach. Until 28 July.
Credits:
1. Michael Wolf, from Architecture of Density.
2. Teatro Comunale di Bologna, Candida Hofer, 2006.
3. J.H. Lartigue © Ministère de la Culture – France / A.A.J.H.L. ‘Coco on the terrace, Neuilly, June 1938’
4. Thomas Demand, Sprungturm republished in The Complete Papers, 2018. Courtesy of Thomas Demand and MACK.
5. Joanna Piotrowska. XXXI, FROWST. 2013-2014. Gelatin silver print, 50 13/16 × 62 5/8″ (129.1 × 159.1 cm). The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Carol and David Appel Family Fund © 2018 Joanna Piotrowska.
6. Michael Wolf, TC 41 from Transparent City, 2007. Courtesy Michael Wolf & La Galerie Particulière.
