
Butch Chanel: John, Robert and Michael, NYC
Michael James O'Brien
Photography - 91.4 x 61 x 0.3 cm Photography - 36 x 24 x 0.1 inch
$5,000
Photography : color edition, archival pigment print
91.4 x 61 x 0.3 cm 36 x 24 x 0.1 inch
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Type
Numbered and limited to 7 copies
1 copy available
Signature
Signed artwork
Authenticity
Sold with certificate of Authenticity from the artist
Invoice from the gallery
Dimensions cm • inch
91.4 x 61 x 0.3 cm 36 x 24 x 0.1 inch Height x Width x Depth
Framing
Not framed
Tags
Artwork sold in perfect condition
Artwork location: United States
Still Life with a Shell and a Rope, Paris 2008 by Michael James O’Brien. Printed on Hahnemuhle fine art photo rag paper. Unframed
This striking artwork presents a surreal still life composition set against a stark black background, enhancing the enigmatic and dramatic appeal. Dominating the scene is a large, glistening cowrie shell, its natural sheen and elegant curves captured with precision. The shell is perched, intriguingly supported by a curved metallic hook that both contrasts and complements its organic form. To the left, a polished, wooden surface introduces warmth, adorned with two small, shimmering pearls that provide a subtle touch of luxury and sophistication. This surface wisely counters the dark void with its smooth texture and rich tone, drawing focus with a sense of stability and elegance. Adding to this mysterious tableau is a twisted, white string of pearls or beads, coiled elegantly into a spiraling form that signifies endlessness and continuity. The string is accentuated by delicate, tassel-like endings, emphasizing fluidity amidst the otherwise solid forms. A solitary candle, seated in a sleek, metallic holder, blazes brilliantly, its flame offering the only source of light. This singular illumination casts dramatic shadows and reflections, infusing the composition with depth and an aura of mystery. The interplay of light and shadow invites the viewer to ponder the symbolic meanings—the ephemeral nature of light against the timelessness of the other elements. This artwork is a masterful interplay of textures, contrasts, and symbols, blending organic and metallic elements to create a balance between nature and artifice. It beckons viewers into a world that defies traditional boundaries, stimulating both thought and emotion.
About the seller
The Art Design Project - Art Gallery • United States
Artsper seller since 2019
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Michael James O'Brien is a photographer, teacher, curator, poet, and activist
Currently based in Atlanta, GA. He has had solo exhibitions in New York, Paris, Beijing, Hong Kong, Antwerp, Istanbul, Liverpool, and Savannah GA. in addition to having worked in London's National Portrait Gallery's permanent collection. His work has been featured in publications like Rolling Stone, Vogue UK, The New Yorker, GQ, Eyemazing, Black & White Photography UK, The Guardian, The Financial Times among many others. He has been Editor-at-Large of Verbal Abuse, the poetry zine as well as Contributing Editor for Departures Magazine.
His book Girlfriend; Men, Women, and Drag, with text by Holly Brubach, was published by Random House in English, French & Japanese in 2000.
From 1900 to 2000 he did all the still photography for Matthew Barney's Drawing Restraint 7 as well as Cremaster 1,2,4 & 5 which were exhibited worldwide.
For over 20 years, O'Brien was a member of ACTUP as well as a volunteer for GMHC and Terrence Higgins Trust UK. He was a co-producer of the Love Ball in NYC & Paris, which over the years raised more than $3million for people living with HIV/AIDS.
He was the Creative Director for DAA/Designers Against Aids in 2011-12 and produced the Live Positive Campaign for the Flemish HIV Awareness organization, SENSOA in 2013.
O'Brien is based in Atlanta where he is the Chair of Photography at the Savannah College of Art and Design/SCAD.
He is currently the Chair of the Advisory Council of Atlanta Celebrates Photography.
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