Project Statement:
“Platforms” is a series exploring New York’s unique underground architecture and the people who temporarily pass through it. Subway platforms, seen from the point of view of a waiting commuter on the other side, present a voyeuristic experience geometrically dissected by the architecture of the space. Visually reminiscent of photographic filmstrips, the ubiquitous subway columns organize the space into multiple narratives. One needs to scan across in order to reveal dynamics between the passersby and see the complete picture. The platform becomes a stage where “actors” take their temporary place until the train passes and invites the following “act”.
The images in this series visualize the nuances of a self-inflicted isolation in an otherwise dense and chaotic mega-city. Interactions, or lack thereof, manifest themselves in the body language and spatial locations of the commuters observed. Overwhelming usage of personal technological devices minimize the potential for human connection even further. Combining a voyeuristic practice with a photographic strategy that takes advantage of the stations’ architectural characteristics, the series reflects detachment, separation, personal spaces, individualism, loneliness, and momentary connections in the underground niches of an urban metropolis.
Artist Bio:
Natan Dvir is a photographer who focuses on the human aspects of cultural, social and political issues. He received his MFA in Photography from the School of Visual Arts (NY), after which he became an adjunct faculty member at the International Center of Photography. Based in New York City, he photographs around the world and is represented by Polaris Images photo agency and Anastasia Photo gallery.
Natan’s projects were exhibited in many solo and group exhibitions in the United States, Europe, South America, and Israel, including the Museum of Fine Arts (Houston), Portland Art Museum, Museum of Contemporary Art (Cleveland), Southeast Museum of Photography (Daytona), International Center of Photography (New York), Blue Sky Gallery (Portland, OR), Anastasia Photo Gallery (New York), Houston Center for Photography, Museo de Antioquia (Medellin), Festival de la Luz (Buenos Aires), Christie’s (London), and Tel Aviv Museum of Art.
Natan’s work has been published by leading international magazines, including The New York Times, Newsweek, Wall Street Journal, Der Spiegel, Stern, Focus, The Times, Paris Match, Le Monde, and Le Figaro, among others. His work has received recognition, winning prizes around the world, including the Picture of the Year, PDN Photo Annual, American Photography, and International Photography Award.
