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40 Photos, 1 of 4 Parts
Africa. The word itself conjures up a variety of images. From Joseph
Conrad’s famous novel, Heart of Darkness, which was later
used as the basis for Apocalypse Now, we gain the vision of a continent
that is mysterious, dangerous, and wild. For those who have been
to Africa, life is invariably changed forever. The sights and sounds
and smells are so evocative of a time long lost, it alters the spirit
and “takes one back.”
So, why did Voronin, so known for his super modern and sensual images
of typically non-African girls, name the presently discussed series,
“Africa”? As is usually the case with Voronin’s
style, the clues are both obvious and subtle. But looking into them
gives us a greater appreciation of this particular photo series.
To begin with, yes, there is a “zebra skin” hanging
from the wall in the background. Such a set element elicits thoughts
of “The Great White Hunter” and man’s ability
to conquer nature. Then again, one can imagine the pelt coming down
off the wall and serving as a soft and warm carpeting for various
indoor (and preferably nude) activities.
The bikini worn by our model is something “African,”
if one considers that word to mean something black, fuzzy, and tribal
looking. It’s not that one can imagine an African woman wearing
it, but instead it gives the model a primitive and “bush”
feel. A subtle, yet delightful, clue to the title.
Finally, one has to admit that many of the qualities of Africa that
Conrad conjures in Heart of Darkness – mystery, danger, and
wildness – are present in this model, especially if you look
in the eyes. She has, it almost seems, a “heart of darkness.”
Yes, she is pale of complexion and sweet of demeanor, but there
seems to be something more serious and perhaps sinister lurking
underneath…or one can only hope so.
It is a testament to Voronin’s artistry that he can take a
model like this and a few set pieces and pull off calling his series
“Africa.” In this case, the title thoroughly contributes
to the aesthetic experience of viewing the photos. These photos,
this model, are “a place to go.” And once you go there,
like Africa, you’re never the same again.
Join Met-Art to see this entire series now.
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