A Singular Eye. This new portfolio presents portraits of top athletes from Great Britain photographed over a period of 16 months as they prepared for and performed in the London 2012 Olympic Games.
Eleven is pleased to present a portfolio of photographs by Jonathan Glynn-Smith in A Singular Eye. This new portfolio presents portraits of top athletes from Great Britain photographed over a period of 16 months as they prepared for and performed in the London 2012 Olympic Games. The exhibition represents a photographic journey from the park to the road, from the pitch to the pool, recording the amazing efforts and passion of all.
Ranging from figurative to more abstract imagery this body of work encompasses the optimism and determination of a generation of outstanding athletes. In an image of Jessica Ennis, who became the adopted face of the London Games, Glynn-Smith opts to portray her legs which are at the core of her strength and ability to perform, instead of her portrait which has made her increasingly recognisable.
Taking his inspiration from the body of the athletes, he views their form as a reflection of their sport and daily training as he presents these unique figures in an iconic way. He uses their muscular structure and form as starting points to also explore the architecture of the Olympic venues and their relationship within the greater context of London’s architecture and the British landscape. From Tom Daley just breaking the surface of the pool or a moody sky lingering above the beach volleyball court, he captures a culmination of moments which all contribute to the splendor and success of Great Britain’s best sportsmen.
Glynn-Smith selected athletes from a variety of disciplines and did extensive research in advance of shooting so he had a clear idea of how he wanted to portray them. As he got to know each individual it became essential that their personalities materialise in his images. The result is a collection of stylish photographs which are unexpected yet have a personal feel.
Alongside the portfolio of work will be a selection of larger unique prints with Glynn-Smith’s diary style writing transcribed onto them. He has spent his entire life writing and recording vignettes in sketchbooks. Combining this craft with his photographs, he writes directly on the work articulating his experiences of the day the photograph was taken.
Jonathan Glynn-Smith lives and works in London. He has been photographing men and women’s fashion for the past fifteen years and also directs TV and printed advertising campaigns. He has recently exhibited in the UK and internationally with major brands including: Louis Vuitton, Condé Nast, Hugo Boss, and Omega.
The portfolio consists of 15 giclée photographic prints. Each print is 20 x 24 in / 51 x 61 cm with an image size is 16 x 20 in / 41 x 51cm. The portfolio is an edition of 50.
Image: Jessica Ennis, Sheffield, 2011. Giclée photographic print, Paper size 20 x 24 in / 51 x 61 cm, Image size 16 x 20 in / 41 x 51cm. Edition of 50
For further information on A Singular Eye or forthcoming exhibitions at Eleven please contact Susannah Haworth on 020 7823 5540 or on susannah@elevenfineart.com
Private view: Thursday 13th September 2012, 6 to 8pm
Eleven Fine Art
11 Eccleston Street - London
Gallery Open
Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 11am - 6pm,
Thursday 11am to 7pm, Saturday 11am - 4pm