Photograph © Sindi Schorr 2008
One of the world’s finest mannequin houses is (Adel) Rootstein. Rootstein’s bailiwick is drawing from life, using (at great expense) live models, in particular famous models like Twiggy, Pat Cleveland, and most recently Agyness Deyn. Rootstein mannequins are distinguished for not being afraid to be dramatic, hyper-realistic, haughty, and at times romantically melancholic.
The photo is taken from a low point of view, thus elevating the expression, thus reiterating the upturned eye that seems exasperated. Make note of the way the hands frame the face, one going straight upwards, one going back, covering the ear as if to say “I don’t want to hear anything more”. The wild permed hair and the eyebrows that are sketched like chunky “Sharpie” slashes, creating a facial tableau that is emotionally resonate. This is a mannequin that commands your attention. One cannot help but feel that there is some kind of a back stage scene going on, and that this supermodel has had enough! We could leave it alone at that, however this particular photo illustrates how gifted Schorr’s eye is. Schorr ventures forward. Schorr captures that magic element. Look at the way the silver bangles reflect the face, splinter it, reverse it, the reflections are almost like a fun house mirror, each bangle capturing a different emotional component. It reinforces the psychotic, schizophrenic sensibility of what the mannequin is conveying.
If you live nearby, please note the work of Sindi Schorr has not gone unnoticed. Ms. Schorr is showing in two upcoming prestigious exhibits…
Il Chiostro:
At the Broome Street Gallery in New York City (located at 498 Broome St. just East of West Broadway in SoHo) The exhibit is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm, March 3rd through the 15th, 2009.
The Artists' Reception, to be held on Saturday, March 7th, 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Call for 212-226-6085 for further details.
Immigration: Community Culture & Change:
At the HP Gallery at Calumet Photo, 22 West 22nd Street, 2ndFloor, in New York City. The exhibit is open from March 9th thru 21st, 2009. The Artists’ Reception, to be held on Friday, March 6th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Sponsored in part by the Professional Women Photographers
