Each Man in His Time | Bruce Weber
19400-491-2 ©Bruce Weber
Written by Max Wiener
Photo edited by Max Amos-Flom
The human body in itself is a piece of art. It is shaped with the careful craftsmanship of a delicate sculpture, with each line and bend articulately placed there by an artisan from above. Surely the mortal figure of man was created by an artist, but it takes an artist’s vision to show us - the commoner, that is - the true beauty that lies on the outsides of all of us. Bruce Weber, the iconic figure in both photography and film, uses stunning black and white images to focus on the allure of the masculine body in his terrific new series Each Man in His Time.
68614-23-1 ©Bruce Weber
Presented with gusto and charm on the walls of the Galerie Obsession, Weber’s images show the strength and handsomeness of the male physique, pairing it with thematic commonalities that have existed for centuries. Through his lens, we see the appeal that exists in the male world, and even some of the struggles that accompany it. The series was just recently extended through January 30th, giving viewers around the world ample time to experience this incredible photographic masterclass.
2505-194-3 ©Bruce Weber
Through Weber’s lens, we see what appears to be the traditional archetype of the masculine figure. His camera highlights the Adonis-like figure that has dominated media for centuries: chiseled abs, sculpted shoulders, etc. His camera is the vehicle for the “ideal” man, presenting his figures as mythical spectacles of beauty rather than mere mortals. All of his subjects could be replacements for the next Ralph Lauren ad campaign; this is a testament to Weber’s vision. He highlights physical beauty like a true appreciator, not as an outsider. His passion and love for his work shines through with each passing photograph, and each succeeding one leaves us all the more satisfied. It is truly a marvel to look at.
11617-66-4 ©Bruce Weber
Each Man in His Time, especially in today’s rapidly progressing landscape, presents an interesting entry into the argument of mainstream masculinity. The definition for the term has shifted rapidly in the past several years, with stars like Harry Styles and Jacob Elordi continually rewriting the narrative of what it means to be a “man.” Does painting your nails make you more feminine, or does the confidence to do so make you more masculine? What does it mean to fully embrace your femininity? Perhaps this series places itself directly in the middle of the argument’s binary.
2-017-5 ©Bruce Weber
It shows a delectable taste oft raditional masculinity, but the naked figures and masculine embrace suggests themes that lie far below each photograph’s surface. We appreciate what once was but use what we have to move forward. This is the true testament to Weber’s ability. His photographs, even in black and white, have a colorful and kaleidoscopic imprint on our psyches that lasts far past the Galerie Obsession. Looking at his images, we reflect not just on others, but ourselves. Through Bruce Weber, we become better versions of ourselves.
72-63-25 ©Bruce Weber
