Photographer Arne Svenson is back with a new series entitled ‘Unspeaking Likeness,’ in which he photographs the facial reconstruction done by forensic artists on unrecognizable deceased bodies. Svenson has turned this process of identification of the deceased into a haunting art form; his "subjects" are given a second life in these spooky photographs. The project is also imbued with mystery, as it’s likely the causes or perpetrators of their death are unknown.
Of the project, Svenson states, "My intent is to create images [...] that will allow the viewer to see past the artificiality of the sculpture and look directly into the eyes of the person this construction represents. As they stare out from these photographs, two questions must be asked for them: ‘Who am I?’ and ‘Who killed me?’"
The finish product shows the humanity of the victims and offers an unnerving, but powerful, comment on the fragility of human life.
Deceased Reconstruction Photographs
These Death Mask Photos are Not for the Faint of Heart
Trend Themes
1. Forensic Facial Reconstruction - Opportunities for disruptive innovation in the field of forensic facial reconstruction, such as using advanced AI algorithms to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of the process.
2. Artistic Reinterpretation - Incorporating artistic elements into the process of facial reconstruction to create evocative and thought-provoking representations that challenge traditional notions of identification and remembrance.
3. Mystery and Intrigue - The exploration of mystery and unknowns surrounding the deceased, opening up possibilities for disruptive technologies like advanced forensic techniques or crowd-sourced investigations.
Industry Implications
1. Forensic Science - Disruptive innovation opportunities within the forensic science industry to improve the accuracy and efficiency of facial reconstruction techniques, aiding in the identification of the deceased.
2. Art and Photography - Incorporating the haunting and thought-provoking aspects of Svenson's work into art and photography, offering new ways to explore themes of identity and mortality.
3. Mystery and Crime Solving - The use of advanced technologies and collective intelligence in solving mysteries and identifying perpetrators, leading to disruptive innovation in the field of criminal investigations.