Felipe Russo

Felipe Russo, (b. 1979, São Paulo, Brazil) first graduated in Biology with a major in Landscape Ecology, disciplines that still inform his process when approaching a space to work with. For the past four years the photographer has worked around São Paulo’s downtown district trying to understand the overlap of history, social use and memory found in the cities current physical structure. Recently Felipe graduated from the Limited Residency International Photography MFA at the Hartford Art School, a program that has a focus on the artist book. His first independent publication CENTRO was nominated as one of the best photobooks of 2014 by Time and exhibited in São Paulo, Mumbai and Buenos Aires, Athens and Milan. His works can be found in public and private collections such as the Maison Europpénne de La Photography in Paris, France. Today we take a look at his series titled, Centro.

FR_070714 002

centro_ 052

Picture 016

centro_ 030

In Centro both my images and the objects I photograph are a direct result of transformation. I photograph downtown São Paulo, when it is empty, like an archeologist I search for what was left behind. Objects and man made construction are the material where I search for order and evidence. I look for vitality in matter to create a space for silence where a subconscious layer in the city can be accessed. The city is seen as an accumulation of constructed objects that gain value for what they are for their physicality and for what they become when photographed. Like monuments they create a personal map of landmarks that allude to social and historical issues regarding the city that is my home.

FR_070714 003

centro_ 033

Picture 008

FR_070714 001

Picture 012

Picture 014

FR_070714 004

Picture 015

centro_ 050

felipe 001

Picture 018

To view more of Felipe’s work please visit his website.