Of Cages and Feathers, by Kristin Schnell, reminds me how exciting and satisfying a photobook can be when it combines a completely fresh take on photography, intelligent and thought-provoking text, and excellent design and printing.
First, the photos are like nothing I’ve seen before. It’s almost impossible to describe them with words. They are pictures of birds inside a theater-stage-like aviary that is well-lit and carefully arranged with colorful props. That sounds like it could be really corny, but somehow it’s not. The stage is set, the photographer is waiting patiently for the birds to fly into the scene, and then the odd thing happens — the birds become curious and poke around, and one can almost sense their animal intelligence and consciousness as they confront and interact with the props and fellow feathered friends.
The whole project seems thoroughly thought-out and well-executed. All of the action takes place in minimalist geometric stage sets, with bright colors that go well with the brightly colored feathers of the birds. Each moment feels charged and electric — scenes that you would never see in nature, but are nevertheless somehow about nature.
The short text at the end of this nearly wordless book is well-written, conversational, wide-ranging, and philosophical. And it also allows you to get to know the photographer and understand how she thinks and how she lives and works.
I won’t quote the book because the experience of reading it in one sitting is pleasing and surprising, and it opens up lots of interpretations and appreciation for the pictures (and for birds). Take a look for yourself.
ISBN: 978-3-96900-180-6
