Life Before Death
Seldom do I see photographs that tip my conscious view on the world upside down. Rarely do I witness pictures that give me a haunted, yet zen like feeling. The juxtaposition witnessed in the work of Walter Schels is obvious and yet confusing. Without the anchorage of the text, I’d be led to believe these are portraits of people awake, and asleep – however with the additions of the descriptions, we’re soon led to understand the true aspects of the imagery. Portraits of the living, followed by them deceased.
I’m not sure if it’s the feeling of warmth as you witness the images prior to their death that haunts me, or the fact it takes a single click to erase their lives. What really touches me though, is the stories behind these images. The individuality that is retained with these portraits that is often underscored by many photographers in today’s era of snap and crap.
I urge you to follow the link and follow the stories, follow the emotions and follow your heart.