The Constructed Family Portraits photo series is just what it sounds like: captures of counterfeit clans. Although it is in the vein of those cheesy family portraits many people have been subjected to, the main difference is that none of the them are related by blood. In fact, they don't even know each other.
Shot by Jamie Diamond, a photographer based in New York City, the Constructed Family Portraits photo series challenges traditional family structures. The artist states, "The portraits are of actual people being themselves in an entirely new context; they intuitively follow the rules of the genre and the group they form for the camera ascribes them an identity." He sought out each person both in public and on Craigslist and then shot them in a group in hotels.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Constructed Family Portraits
- Using actual people with no blood relation challenges traditional family structures, creating opportunities for alternative definitions of family.
- Counterfeit Clans
- Capturing non-related individuals in a family portrait format highlights the fluidity of identity and the power of chosen connections.
- Public/craigslist Collaborations
- Connecting strangers through online platforms like Craigslist to create unique group portraits showcases the potential for unconventional collaborations and new ways of building communities.
Where This Applies
- Photography
- The Constructed Family Portraits photo series presents an innovative approach to traditional portraiture, encouraging photographers to experiment with unconventional subjects and concepts.
- Art
- The Counterfeit Clan Captures challenge conventional perceptions of family and identity, opening up avenues for artists to explore alternative narratives and create thought-provoking works.
- Online Marketplaces
- The use of Craigslist to find subjects for the Constructed Family Portraits series suggests potential in leveraging online platforms for unique collaborations and artistic projects, presenting opportunities for businesses in the online marketplace sector.
