Evgen Bavčar, a conceptual artist, has been crafting his unique photography for decades despite losing his sight at the age of 11. His work challenges conventional notions of visual art and highlights the power of imagination and memory.
Coming to you from Borut Peterlin, this fascinating video explores the life and work of Evgen Bavčar. Peterlin details how Bavčar, despite his blindness, has become a significant figure in the art world. He began losing his sight due to illness, yet he memorized the world around him before it completely faded. This early visual memory became the foundation for his artistic vision.
Bavčar's academic achievements are impressive. He earned an MA in philosophy and aesthetics from Université Paris, Panthéon-Sorbonne, and later a PhD. His intellectual background deeply influences his work, merging philosophical concepts with visual art. In 1988, he became the official photographer of the Month of Photography in Paris, cementing his status in the art community.
Bavčar's technique is unique. He often collaborates with a sighted photographer to create images that reflect his memories and imagination. Working primarily at night, he uses light and touch to "see." He places paper cutouts in the scene, flashes light to create silhouettes, and captures the essence of what he imagines. His series "Longing for Light" embodies this process.
Peterlin emphasizes how Bavčar's work involves a deep connection with his surroundings through other senses. For example, Bavčar describes how wind can "blind" him by drowning out auditory cues, highlighting the importance of sound in his perception of the world. His images, such as "Longing for Light," often feature elements like sparrows and childhood memories, created through a tactile and auditory process.
In another piece, Bavčar photographs a cupboard, illuminating it based on what he touches. This method allows him to create a visual representation of his tactile experience, making the invisible visible. His works are a blend of touch, light, and memory, demonstrating a profound understanding of the sensory interplay.
Bavčar's approach to photography teaches a valuable lesson. You don't need to conform to traditional methods to create meaningful art. His ability to overcome his blindness and produce such evocative work is a testament to human creativity and resilience. It also reminds us that limitations can be transcended with innovation and determination. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Peterlin.
