This Somber Acid Attack Photo Series Documents Resilient Survivors
Farida Helmy — July 15, 2014 — Art & Design
References: kenhermann.dk & designtaxi
This utterly disturbing acid attacks photo series will haunt you and shock you. Capturing the somber faces of people disfigured due to acid attacks, photographer Ken Hermann and video journalist Tai Klan show the world the effects these attacks have on those who survive them.
Documenting the victims of acid attacks from Dhaka, Bangladesh, the ‘Survivors’ project both visually documents the subjects and shares their stories. By portraying visibly scarred subjects, the duo is making sure we don’t look the other way and pretend that horrible things are not taking place around the world. What makes this acid attacks photo series so special is the fact that the survivors are not playing victims—they are neither sad or broken, instead they seem proud and resilient.
Hermann wanted to emphasize the survivors’ “beauty and strength rather than displaying them as freaks” in his touching portraits project.
Documenting the victims of acid attacks from Dhaka, Bangladesh, the ‘Survivors’ project both visually documents the subjects and shares their stories. By portraying visibly scarred subjects, the duo is making sure we don’t look the other way and pretend that horrible things are not taking place around the world. What makes this acid attacks photo series so special is the fact that the survivors are not playing victims—they are neither sad or broken, instead they seem proud and resilient.
Hermann wanted to emphasize the survivors’ “beauty and strength rather than displaying them as freaks” in his touching portraits project.
Trend Themes
1. Raising Awareness of Acid Attacks - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop educational campaigns and support networks to bring attention to the issue of acid attacks and promote prevention.
2. Celebrating Resilience and Empowerment - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create platforms and initiatives that empower acid attack survivors by highlighting their strength and beauty, promoting inclusivity and challenging societal beauty standards.
3. Documenting Human Stories Through Visual Arts - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore the power of photography and videography to tell compelling human stories, fostering empathy and understanding in the audience.
Industry Implications
1. Social Justice and Human Rights - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Leverage technology and social media platforms to mobilize support, raise funds, and advocate for the rights of acid attack survivors.
2. Art and Photography - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Foster collaborations between artists, photographers, and survivors to create impactful visual art that challenges societal norms and promotes healing and empowerment.
3. Mental Health and Well-being - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop innovative counseling and support services tailored specifically for acid attack survivors to address mental health challenges and promote healing.
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