Blindwalk

A person cannot see, but moves through space by following my instructions. Through the camera, I observe and document his loss of control while guiding him from afar. Their coordination and movement are cautious and awkward. At the same time, they are reminiscent of the mechanical movements of a technical apparatus.

The situation describes an experimental arrangement along which a participatory role play unfolds between the photographer and the human subject. The depicted person moves through a deserted urban landscape following an unspecified dramaturgy. He is positioned centrally in the image section, with the camera perspectives mainly showing rear views, making clear identification more difficult. The temporary loss of sight has visible effects on the person’s physical somatic abilities. Where the depiction of the human body and its specific gestures usually enables us to perceive it as human and to identify with it, here the representative function is increasingly impaired and makes the generally unconsciously perceived process of objectification in front of the camera visible.