Photos by Bob Eckert
In the context of human society, a family (from Latin: familia) is a group of people related either by consanguinity (by recognized birth), affinity (by marriage or other relationship), or co-residence (as implied by the etymology of the English word "family") or some combination of these.
The "Families" photographic series by Bob Eckert presents a Yin/Yang vision of family life, familial and sibling interaction and parenting.
From loving moments to those of frustration, the images capture the complexity of what we call the "Family."
In addition to portraying these seemingly opposite ends of the family spectrum, the series attempts to show some of those strange, fleeting and even ironic/iconic moments we encounter when examining the family but often overlook because they appear commonplace.
Often those "commonplace" images are the most telling. A times the images yield humor or subtle insights into the relationships that make up the Family, while at other times the complexities of these relationships, and the accompanying photos offer up more questions than answers. The images that prompt questions are often Eckert's favorites.
A motion with one's hand, interesting body language or a facial expression, albeit subtle, invite the viewer into this world in such a manner that, once inside, you find more substance than what might appear with a casual glance.
Chance and deliberation are evident throughout. The series might be compared to a combination of snapshots with chautauqua. They appear simplistic at times, but upon closer inspection, reveal captivating and complex stories about the intricacies of family and parental life.
In the context of human society, a family (from Latin: familia) is a group of people related either by consanguinity (by recognized birth), affinity (by marriage or other relationship), or co-residence (as implied by the etymology of the English word "family") or some combination of these.
The "Families" photographic series by Bob Eckert presents a Yin/Yang vision of family life, familial and sibling interaction and parenting.
From loving moments to those of frustration, the images capture the complexity of what we call the "Family."
In addition to portraying these seemingly opposite ends of the family spectrum, the series attempts to show some of those strange, fleeting and even ironic/iconic moments we encounter when examining the family but often overlook because they appear commonplace.
Often those "commonplace" images are the most telling. A times the images yield humor or subtle insights into the relationships that make up the Family, while at other times the complexities of these relationships, and the accompanying photos offer up more questions than answers. The images that prompt questions are often Eckert's favorites.
A motion with one's hand, interesting body language or a facial expression, albeit subtle, invite the viewer into this world in such a manner that, once inside, you find more substance than what might appear with a casual glance.
Chance and deliberation are evident throughout. The series might be compared to a combination of snapshots with chautauqua. They appear simplistic at times, but upon closer inspection, reveal captivating and complex stories about the intricacies of family and parental life.
To contact Bob Eckert for assignments, consultations or workshops, please email [email protected]
or use the contact form on the About page
or use the contact form on the About page