(c) Ilan WittenbergJazz Noir
Jazz Noir
Tag Archive for: Monochrome
(c) Ilan Wittenberg
(c) Ilan WittenbergCraig
Portrait Photographer Auckland
(c) Ilan WittenbergVicky on the Rocks!
Vicky Freeman
“My self confidence didn’t come easy and no, I didn’t always have it!
I always wanted to be a model. From when I was around 14 years old I looked up to the likes of Elle MacPherson, Cindy Crawford and Rachel Hunter. Well if that doesn’t show my age, haha!
Back then I was told I was too short – I didn’t have the right look, etc…
If I knew then what I know now I would have said to myself: ‘your time is coming: it will be a long wait but it will be worth it!’
Fast forward twenty four years and here I am: I have had paid modelling career! Who would have thought?
I am so grateful everyday that i didn’t listen to those people and kept believing in the voice within me that said: ‘now, it’s your turn!’
“
(c) Ilan Wittenberg
(c) Ilan WittenbergPierre Paki
Portrait Photographer Auckland
(c) Ilan Wittenberg
(c) Ilan Wittenberg
(c) Ilan WittenbergMaharatia Clarke
Maharatia Clarke
“I’ve never had the confidence to be in front of the camera or to have my photos taken until I got into the entertainment industry. This gave me more self belief in myself which has made me the man I am today. I am now not only working on myself to become the best version I can be, I also push and strive to be the best in every area or aspect of my life and will continue to do so every year.
The tattoo (Tā moko) on my left shoulder, gives me the strength to stand tall and take pride in what I do. With my family on my chest and my iwi Tainui, I will make my mark here in this universe and be sure to make my presence well known.”
The tattoo (Tā moko) on my left shoulder, gives me the strength to stand tall and take pride in what I do. With my family on my chest and my iwi Tainui, I will make my mark here in this universe and be sure to make my presence well known.”
Tainui is a tribal waka confederation of New Zealand Māori iwi. The Tainui confederation comprises four principal related Māori iwi of the central North Island of New Zealand: Hauraki, Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngāti Raukawa and Waikato.
Iwi are the largest social units in Aotearoa Māori society. The Māori-language word iwi means “people” or “nation” and is often translated as “tribe” or “a confederation of tribes”.
Iwi are the largest social units in Aotearoa Māori society. The Māori-language word iwi means “people” or “nation” and is often translated as “tribe” or “a confederation of tribes”.
(c) Ilan Wittenberg
(c) Ilan Wittenberg
(c) Ilan Wittenberg
(c) Ilan WittenbergSammi
Sammi
(c) Ilan WittenbergSnow Spirit
Snow
(c) Ilan Wittenberg
(c) Ilan Wittenberg Photography at UXBRIDGE: Sharp focus on Africa
Auckland’s cultural arena includes at least one show that’s likely to grab some attention this summer – a striking collection of monochrome prints of the Maasai people by award-winning photographer Ilan Wittenberg, on show at Malcolm Smith Gallery, Uxbridge Arts from February 28 – April 24.
From here to Africa is a collection of captivating portraits of the Maasai people from Tanzania.
“I found myself deeply inspired upon meeting the Maasai tribe and realised the opportunity to document their unique culture which is being eroded by Western influence and modern technology,” said Wittenberg.
“On a personal level, this reminds me of the true value of photography: preserving memories in order to relive special stories and pass them on to others. Through this series of carefully composed photographs, the Maasai people can share their rich culture with the world.”
The collection is presented in a film-noir monochrome, capturing these portraits in a classically timeless style; lending a unifying appearance that emulates analogue lithographic technique, she said.
“I wanted viewers to focus on the humanity aspect of each portrait: expressions and body language, shapes and forms. I eliminated distracting colours to ensure that viewers focus on the people within the photos and make emotional connections with these individuals,” said Wittenberg.
“I aim to depict the Maasai culture in an authentic and honest way, using a clear narrative style which shows people the significance of their culture, as well as their individual personalities.
“My goal is to provoke your imagination regarding the traditions of the Maasai people and the stories behind their portraits.”
In sharing this portfolio, Wittenberg encourages viewers to show tolerance, to accept all people and to recognise the value of cultural diversity.
“We would all experience an enhanced sense of community if we took the time to appreciate interactions which allow us to discover the world beyond our familiar boundaries,” she said.
From here to Africa was also selected as a featured exhibition at the 2020 Head On photo festival in Sydney.
The show will run from February 28 to April 24 at Uxbridge Arts and Culture, Howick.
Opening Event: Friday, February 28 at 7:30pm with keynote speaker Sir Bob Harvey.
Artist Talk: Saturday, March 7 at 11am.
Malcolm Smith Gallery
Uxbridge Arts and Culture,
35 Uxbridge Rd, Howick
FRI – MON 10 am – 4pm
TUE – THU 10am – 9pm
Admission is Free
(c) Ilan Wittenberg
(c) Ilan Wittenberg