An ensemble of colors, forms, shapes and shadows. A sculpture in movement: intriguing yet provocative; Skin Deep by Julien Palast is an inspiring project. A concrete study on the body-object, presented by muting the human form into plastic figures.
A silicon shield separates the subject from the camera. In each photo it is palpable how Palast aimed to represent movement under ranging point of views: facial expressions, hyped up muscles. The stretched plastic from which the silhouettes are noticeable, seem as though the skin is encompassing a body that is striving hard to get out.
Julien Palast's concentration focused majorly on color gradients, varying from touches of orange to blue and magenta. The incongruous use of colors made the series standout divinely.
The questionable use of the light may give the artist cynical reviews. Some argue that the plastic and shiny look displaces the viewers’ eye. Perhaps Palast should have favored a “matte appearance” instead, or likewise emphasized more on dark contrasts, playing with the shadows to obtain light variation where needed.
Yet there is no doubt on the of the concept’s originality and on its impeccable realization. Julien Palast surely knows how to “‘dig deep’ in the spectators’ skin”. One could only entirely appreciate his work if able to navigate between the fluidity and tensions, edges and curves created by the mastery of this French photographer.
The body movements and anatomy are perfectly represented. The series is pure and simple.
Sept. 12, 2012
Shenkar
British Higher School of Art and Design
Design Academy Eindhoven
Parsons
LOFT 42
Skopje Design Week
