11) Artist Research, Elise Mesner - 15/10/17

While flicking through the latest edition (October/November 2017) of 'Aesthetica' magazine, I came across Elise Mesner's series 'Idealistic Surroundings' from which I was very inspired by. Scans from the magazine can be seen below which show my favourite images from the series.

The above scan explains the thought behind the project as well as some of the people Mesner has previously worked for. After reading this introduction and noticing phrases to describe her work such as 'a near-fictitious world filled with pastels, organic life and whimsical sensibilities' and 'Mesner finds unexpected dimensions and translates everyday scenery into a halcyon summer' I was immediately drawn in to look at the work.

I really like this portrait due to the weird angle of the individual against all the foliage. The composition of the photo itself looks quite ambiguous - I can't tell if the subject is leaning against the greenery, laying on the greenery or even locate the environment. This ambiguity is emphasised through not being able to see the subject's full body, and I really love this overall cropped effect. I think it could work quite well in my manifesto photographs.

I found this shot quite inspiring, because I need to shoot some plants growing as part of documenting the manifesto. I love the contrasting green and pink colours, really making the image pop out to the viewer. When shooting some of my still life shots in the studio I want to incorporate bright coloured backdrops like seen in this image.

The two above images were placed on a double page spread together, and I just really like the way the studio lighting has been used to create more of a harsh shadow. Its something you don't usually see in most high-key studio shots, but I think its to replicate how the shadows of the sun would be coming from the subject and objects against the coloured backdrop. Its almost a way of bringing the sunlight inside, while also having a studio environment with the bright coloured backdrops and minimalist compositions. I think it works so well together!

I really like all the portraits in this series of work, and they're something I want to shoot more of. Although portraits of other people doesn't really fit into my idea of shooting my own happiness manifesto, it is something I'd like to incorporate further down the line if possible. I also really like the make-up and styling in these shots - they really compliment the colours within the location. I can see a lot of time has gone into finding the right location and putting the individual in that place, with harmonious styling and makeup. This is something I want to push myself to do if I do end up taking portraits within the project.

Therefore in reflection I'm so pleased I found this work because I was trying to think about what sort of way I wanted to shoot my manifesto photographs, and I'm really inspired by this works style, colour and composition. The work also inspires me to create more playful compositions with bright colours and more energy. I just really want to push myself to make this work the best it can be.

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