What do a puppet maker, boat builder, luthier, and cutler have in common? They’ve all been photographed by New York portrait and lifestyle photographer Laura Barisonzi as part of her latest personal work, The Makers Series.
As someone who understands the creative process that all artists and artisans go through, Laura has always been intrigued with those who dedicate their lives to their daily practice of turning art into object and the overall concept of the Makers Movement. When assigned to photograph the CEO of Etsy, Laura knew she wanted to photograph him in a maker’s space. They shot in a leather maker’s house in Brooklyn and it was that shoot that inspired her to create the series.
Laura individually sought out her subjects through research and networking, focusing on those who stay true to their art by creating their work by hand in their studios, and not outsourcing to other vendors. Each artist explained why they chose to not outsource, even if it limited profits or volumes. Producing quality products by hand with attention to detail is what they feel makes each piece more unique.
Laura produced and art directed each portrait, giving thoughtful attention to the environment and the character of both the maker and his/her art. It was important to Laura to feature a wide variety of male and female artisans who are innovating and reaching new heights within their disciplines, not random hobbyists.
“As an artist, you want to work with other people who are just as passionate about their own trade, who push themselves to document your work in a way that’s both flattering and carefully studied. Laura has a unique view of a maker’s role in the creative economy. She knows how important the details are to the people who immerse themselves obsessively in a craft every day.” — Trent Preszler, Canoe builder
A total of 10 makers have been photographed to date with plans to continue to series, curating for future publication.
As architect Jim Ron once said, “Whatever good things we build, end up building us.” That statement couldn’t be more true in building this new body of work for Barisonzi.
