The poetic universe of Michael Kenna's photography is on view with a retrospective of his work at Paris' Bibliotheque Nationale (until January 24, 2010). Organized around such themes as "The Tree " "Far East" and "In Solitary Parks." the exhibition retraces the various phases of the photographer's work starting with his early pictures inspired by Bill Brandt to his recent work photographed in China, Japan and India.
Kenna pictures, in the timeless tradition of classic black and white landscape photography, disclose a very personal vision of the world. He notes that photography is not about copying the world. His photographs suggest contemplation and let the « viewer » free to daydream. Kenna has said that « his work is much closer to haiku poetry than Joyce's full-length prose. »
His square format, minimal compositions (made with film cameras) emphasize design in nature while revealing ethereal uninhabited landscapes. Many of his pictures are taken at dawn or dusk with long exposures. From misty English country sides to the geometric order of Versaille's gardens to industrial environments, Kenna's work focuses on recurring themes and places where he comes back over and over again – Easter Island, Le Nôtre's gardens…
With Kenna's photos one feels a sense of respect for his subjects. He has said:"If you're meeting a tree for the first time, as with a person, you don't take that tree, or person for granted. The more respect, reverence, and honor you give to whatever is in front of you, the better you will also be received." The tree, in its silent remoteness, is another Being to be loved. "I like to know a tree, quite closely. I'll often spend a long time circling the tree, getting to know it. In a sense I talk to the tree. I try to be respectful and I like to go back to that same tree two years later, five years later, or as often as I can."
"Michael Kenna A Retrospective," to January 24th 2010 ,BnF – Richelieu – Photo Gallery, 58 rue de Richelieu – Paris IIe, Tuesday to saturday 10 am – 7 pm, Sunday noon – 7 pm, Closed on Monday and public hollydays. 7&5Euros