XY
Photography by Mathieu Grandjean
INTRODUCTION by MATHIEU GRANDJEAN
"XY" is a portraits series that probes the critical question of the
notion of couple. Although a couple is commonly defined as two people linked together in an intimate relationship, its diversity (inter-racial or same-sex) is still not completely recognized or officially accepted. These portraits were taken in California where the notion of married couple had been strongly debated with the approval of the Proposition 8 on November, 4 2008. The series includes couples from my intimate circle but most of them were randomly approached. Some portraits were made during scheduled sessions, others on the spur of the moment when I was setting up my equipment in public spaces such as farmers markets or gatherings. In every case, the setting remained the same: one chair against a neutral background, in daylight. Couples are directed to face the camera without looking at each other. For each photo session, I restricted myself to one roll, 36-exposures, to preserve the vitality and the authenticity of the encounter. Although the partners are aware of the camera, these stark portraits reveal an unexpected aspect of both individuals while their gesture expresses the intimate relationship between them. Such approach emphasizes their unique character while the broad selection conveys an universal condition.
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