Pim's List

Jitka Hanzlova

I am in love with the work of Jitka Hanzlova. When you first open her book Forest, it may take time to see the mystical beauty of the transelvanian forest that she captures in this monograph. The introduction by John Berger is a snooze and I recommend you proceed directly past that drivel and get right into the images which are playful, mysterious and divine. She is one of a number of female European photographers who do not seem to be getting the exposure they deserve here in the states.

This is Hanzlova's second book after her first collection called simply Female. Female is now out of print and very difficult to come by, but can be had if you're willing to shell out for the now elevated price. What strikes me most about Hanzlova is how each images comes across as very straight forward upon first glance, but then each new glances holds new pleasures.

See more of her images

Elena Dorfman : Fandomania

Elena Dorfman is an interesting photographer. Her first photo book called Still Lovers, followed the interactions and life of individuals who purchase life size anatomically correct dolls. What was most interesting to me about this collection was that Dorfman captured images of the dolls as members of the family.

Her newest book Fandomania captures fans of magna and anime dressed up as the characters they admire. The images are a fun an whimsical commentary on fantasy.

Her website

Nicola Dove

Nicola Dove's images of people in meditative and prayer moments are worth checking out. Created with long shutters in low-light conditions, they are playful and mystical images exploring time and the ethereal quality of photography so often neglected in the digital age.

Her online work here.

Robbie Cooper: Avatars and their Creators

Robbie Cooper is a photojournalist who has turned his attention to the world of online gaming. In recent years the popularity of warcraft online, second life and even sims online have opened the door to virtual worlds. Cooper explores our virtual personas by photographing the avatar and then the woman or man behind the screen. It makes for a fascinating collection of work.

Check out the book here

Justin Guariglia: Shaolin Temple of Zen

                                           

Justin Guariglia has created a book of images unlike any seen before. The Shaolin monks of northern China have rarely opened their doors to the public. Guariglia works collaboratively with designer and artist Zoe Chen. Check out some of these links.

Chen + Guariglia Website

Aperture MicoSite

Shaolin Gung Fu Institute

Corey Arnold

Corey Arnold's images of the Alaskan Crabbing life are amazing. After receiving his MFA, Arnold went North to document the life and water/landscapes of Alaska. He has a great series on Finnish seascapes as well. Check his work out here