Last Updated on 10/10/2017 by Chris Gampat
All images by Evelyn Bencicova. Used with Creative Commons permission.
We hear the phrase “art imitates life” every now and then, but I think sometimes we see “imitations” that make us wish life can be just as artful in the real world. I was recently reminded of this as I browsed through the beautiful set by Bratislava-based photographer and art director, Evelyn Bencicova.
Entitled artificial tears, Evelyn’s set lets us follow a lone subject who appears to be going about her days, which seem mostly hushed and unhurried. Many of the scenes we witness are relatable and familiar. Stressful days at work, solo walks around town, daily chores we sometimes don’t want to be bothered with, an occasional visit to the local museum or art gallery, random Instax-worthy moments, and sometimes just doing nothing but staying still. Everything feels so everyday that I can almost hear many of you say, “Yeah, been there, done that.”
This photo set could very well be a stab at the monotony of everyday life, but what makes up for the ordinariness of everything is how it’s aesthetically pleasing. From the muted colors, the soft color palette, the minimalist locations, to the subject’s styling — everything comes together to create a cinematic feel to Evelyn’s visual tale. She has made it in such a way that the mundanity of life becomes lonelier and more affecting, but also beautiful that you won’t mind humdrum days if they can be anything like this. Additionally, one could interpret the subject’s constantly hidden face as trying to hide sadness while going about daily life.
Part conceptual photography and part art direction, “artificial tears” is overall an excellent example of how photography plays on our ideas, perceptions, experiences, and emotions. Evelyn’s imitation of life is definitely artful and eye-catching in this set. But, I also find it inspiring for making everyday life artful even in the tiniest, most ordinary details.
Check out Evelyn Bencicova’s Behance page to see more of her excellent photography and art direction.