Raymond Depardon‘s Manicomi Series is Haunting and Sombre
Farida Helmy — June 13, 2014 — Art & Design
References: magnumphotos & featureshoot
Taking on a subject many have tried to capture with a lens, photographer Raymond Depardon‘s asylum photo series is haunting and riveting. Shot all in black and white, the 'Manicomi' series portrays a look inside the secretive 'insane asylums' of Italy before they were shut down.
Showing how harshly society dealt with the mentally ill at the time, the Paris-based and Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer zooms in on Italian asylums from 1977 to 1981 -- a law was introduced in 1978 to close down asylums in Italy -- in this candid series.
The asylum photo series takes us on a journey with the photographer as he discovers the versatile conditions of these permanent homes of the mentally ill. The set of images feel surreal, almost like they are trying to prove how some of these people had to live -- with patients locked in cages for their own safety -- because otherwise people wouldn't have believed it.
Showing how harshly society dealt with the mentally ill at the time, the Paris-based and Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer zooms in on Italian asylums from 1977 to 1981 -- a law was introduced in 1978 to close down asylums in Italy -- in this candid series.
The asylum photo series takes us on a journey with the photographer as he discovers the versatile conditions of these permanent homes of the mentally ill. The set of images feel surreal, almost like they are trying to prove how some of these people had to live -- with patients locked in cages for their own safety -- because otherwise people wouldn't have believed it.
Trend Themes
1. Haunting Photography - Photographers can explore the power of haunting and sombre imagery to evoke emotions and captivate viewers.
2. Documenting History - There is a growing demand for photo series that document historical events and shed light on societal issues.
3. Challenging Perceptions - Photography that challenges societal perceptions and exposes harsh realities can spark important conversations.
Industry Implications
1. Photography - Photographers can leverage the power of visual storytelling to create impactful and thought-provoking content.
2. Mental Health - The mental health industry can benefit from raising awareness and improving treatment options through visual representation.
3. Art and Culture - The art and culture sector can incorporate provocative and socially conscious photography to engage audiences and prompt discussions.
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