February 13 – March 31, 2023
Historically, vernacular photography has shown us glimpses into the lives and relationships of everyday people. Since film is used for this type of photography, fleeting moments that would otherwise be lost or exist only in hazy memory, are given permanence.
In contemporary times people have chosen to document through digital means using phones or tablets. While those kinds of images may look really good, they can lack a certain authenticity because digital photos can be endlessly retaken until the moment becomes more of a staged photo shoot. Recently, among Gen Z, there has been a trend to buy disposable or older film cameras. Using these types of cameras tends to make the taking of pictures less serious and keeps the moment fun and loose. This allows us to see intimate moments between friends.
This collection of photographs is of contemporary images featuring different Gen Z friend groups everywhere. The pictures were taken spontaneously among friends and family capturing candid, genuine moments of joy. It is important to note these images are born out of the friendships and closeness between the photographer and the subject. The photographer is more than just a documenter of what is occurring, they are also a participant.
The title of this show is not only about the lasting relationships of the subjects, but also the permanent format of physical film photography.
BFF’s – Claire Fadness, Caroline Karakey, Isha Khanzode, Rachel Kosta, Bix Lowsley-Williams, Alice Pendergast and Aidan Wiese
This exhibition curated by Claire Fadness, a student of Connecticut College, and summer 2022 intern for the Griffin Museum in our Administration program.
Claire Fadness is a student at Connecticut College, majoring in Art and Art History with a certificate program in Museum Studies. She first became interested in photography through an art history class her sophomore year of college. Especially inspired by vernacular photography, Claire was prompted to buy her own point and shoot film camera. Her favorite thing to capture are candid moments with loved ones. All of her friends will tell you how irritated she becomes when taking a picture and everyone begins to pose.
This particular group of photographers were chosen after an open call through Claire’s instagram. The audience reached was a group of young adults whom Claire had various connections with. However, it was initially prompted by looking at the photos taken by her and her friends. The photos chosen have an emphasis on group dynamics and friendship.
New Visions is a curatorial project that highlights the creativity of the Griffin Museum Curatorial Internship Program. Throughout their time at the museum, each student develops a thesis statement or curatorial vision, connects with artists, selects images, writes texts and produces an online exhibition finding new ways to express their creativity through a curatorial practice.
