Exploring the Intersection of Image and Poetry | Lucero del Castillo
Text by Oman Morí
Images by Lucero del Castillo
Peruvian photographer Lucero del Castillo uses her lens to delve into profound social issues concerning women. Her latest project takes an intriguing departure as she embarks on a more introspective journey, blending her abstract and almost surreal black-and-white photography with poetry. Her new photobook, "CONTRAPUNTO," showcases a dynamic exchange between visual art and written expression.
Del Castillo's photography has consistently explored profound topics, ranging from the construction of feminine identity in young girls to the portrayal of women in popular culture, and the intricate relationship between social media and personal identities, along with the complex interplay of race and gender stereotypes. However, "CONTRAPUNTO" takes a unique turn as she collaborates with Victor Vich, a Peruvian poetry professor. This year-long dialogue blends her images with his verses.
In their own words: ”This photobook raises questions about the dialogue between image and poetry. Produced as a year-long exchange between a photographer's archive and a poetry professor's knowledge, its objective was to explore a different kind of conversation, attempting to deconstruct the opposition between viewing and reading. This correspondence was self-sufficient, as there were no questions or comments about the submissions. Both were aware of the difference in mediums, but at the same time, they sought to observe how photography and poetry explored that which is (personal or political) beyond words and seems very difficult to be narrated”.
"CONTRAPUNTO" challenges the art world's emphasis on individual creativity, promoting the power of collective creation through art and poetry. Does art thrive beyond personal inspiration? What happens when collective creativity challenges a society that prefers solo works? "CONTRAPUNTO" documents the journey of two individuals who briefly explored an alternative dialogue.
To learn more about Lucero del Castillo's photography, visit her website: www.lucerodelcastillo.com.
