Sarah Malakoff
Sarah Malakoff
Personal History
Hardcover
24x30cm
112 pages
2022
Kehrer Verlag
About the Book:
In this body of work, I look closely at objects displayed within American homes that reference history and culture. These items may speak to the ancestral lineage of the occupant, a co-opting of others’ stories, or an aspirational identity. Whether paintings, photographs, or sculptures of historical figures or events, documents or books, the possessions point to a longing for connection to the past and an engagement with the world at large. Often the collections of objects underscore the privilege and power implicit in the act of collecting. Embracing the past becomes a commodity. The souvenirs resonate — sometimes humorously, sometimes disturbingly — with the other possessions and architecture that surround them, uneasily vacillating between heroism and kitsch, patriotism and colonialism.
Book review by Dana Stirling |
"Personal History" by Sarah Malakoff is a compelling exploration of the intersection between personal identity, culture, and history through the lens of American homes. Malakoff's photographic journey delves into the objects that adorn our private spaces, revealing the conscious and unconscious expressions of our aspirations, desires, and fears. Through a thoughtful lens, the book uncovers the intricate relationships between possessions, culture, and ideology, with a keen focus on representations of historical figures, events, and monuments. Malakoff skillfully captures the nuanced narrative embedded in these objects, highlighting their role in shaping personal histories while also examining the privilege and power associated with collecting.
In the context of a rich history of photographers documenting domestic interiors in the United States, Malakoff's work stands out, echoing the earlier tradition of capturing the individual character of homes and their inhabitants. The absence of both Malakoff and the homeowners from view creates a mysterious layer, allowing the viewer to interpret the images as a collection of personal histories. The title, "Personal History," hints at this generality, inviting viewers to consider the broader implications of the images. Thoughtfully sequenced, each photograph offers a dual perspective—both as a standalone piece and as part of a larger composite, providing a nuanced glimpse into various aspects of American culture.
Photographing a personal space serves as a profound act of self-revelation for a photographer, extending beyond the mere documentation of physical surroundings. Through the lens, the photographer not only captures the nuances of the space itself but also unveils a deeply personal perspective on the world. In portraying the personal space, the photographer unwittingly exposes a part of their own narrative, allowing viewers to decipher the unique amalgamation of experiences, emotions, and influences that shape both the artist and the space they inhabit. Thus, photographing personal spaces becomes a dual revelation—a window not only onto the physical environment but also into the photographer's soul, providing an intimate exploration of their relationship with the world through the transformative medium of photography.
As an immigrant myself here in the U.S, the exploration of homes, particularly American homes, is fascinating and enlightening. Each photo offers a glimpse into not only contemporary lifestyles but also the historical narratives that have shaped these spaces. The architecture, decor, and personal artifacts within American homes act as a vivid cultural reference, often vastly different from the environments I grew up with.
Still life photography emerges as a powerful tool, capable of narrating the stories of individuals and communities in a distinctive manner. Through the careful arrangement of inanimate objects, still life captures the essence of people's lives, reflecting their tastes, values, and even other personal contexts. The importance of still life photography lies in its ability to freeze moments in time, offering a timeless snapshot of personal and cultural narratives. In a world constantly in flux, still life provides a quiet and contemplative space, allowing for the preservation of memories, cultural traditions, and individual histories. It transcends mere representation, becoming a visual language that speaks to the viewer on a deeply emotional and introspective level, emphasizing the enduring significance of still life in the broader spectrum of photography.
Sarah Malakoff's photography unveils a delightful element of whimsy, infusing her project documenting personal spaces with a touch of humor and absurdity. Through her lens, the mundane becomes extraordinary, as she captures not just the physicality of homes but also the idiosyncrasies and quirks that make them uniquely human.
This whimsical approach invites viewers to connect with the subjects and their spaces on a personal level, as the humor embedded in the images resonates with universal experiences. Despite being strangers in these spaces, there's an uncanny familiarity that allows us to envision ourselves or people we might know inhabiting these homes. Malakoff's ability to weave whimsy into the narrative not only adds a layer of charm to her work but also bridges the gap between the unfamiliar and the familiar, creating a visual language that speaks to the shared essence of human experiences within the intimate confines of our homes.
