Most portrait photography seeks to focus on subjects as clearly as possible; however, the 'Formation Face' series by Mitar Simikic aims to do the opposite.
Each photograph captures a shot of a person's face obscured by graffiti. Some of the markings are reminiscent of something one would find on a seedy bathroom wall. In fact, it's as though Simikic took such a wall, made it transparent somehow, then instructed his models to stand behind the wall and began shooting. In other photographs, the graffiti is less gritty.
Almost everyone has doodled on a newspaper, adorning some politician or public figure with a mustache and glasses. In a similar vein, many of Simikic's photographs do the same. This adds a welcome hint of levity to an otherwise serious series.
Gritty Graffiti-Grafted Portraits
These Mitar Simikic Photographs are Deliberately Vandalized
Trend Themes
1. Obscured Portraits - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Creating a new style of portrait photography that intentionally obscures the subject's face with graffiti, adding a unique and edgy aesthetic.
2. Graffiti Art Integration - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Exploring the integration of graffiti art with traditional photography to create visually striking and expressive compositions.
3. Playful Doodled Portraits - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Incorporating playful doodles and customization into portrait photography to add a sense of whimsy and personalization.
Industry Implications
1. Photography - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Using innovative techniques and aesthetics to redefine traditional portrait photography and appeal to a broader audience.
2. Street Art - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Collaborating with photographers to create graffiti-inspired artworks that blur the boundaries between street art and fine art.
3. Print Media - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Incorporating doodles and unconventional designs into print media advertising campaigns to capture attention and engage viewers.