Rani Bruchstein

Bruchstein, a self-taught artist, seeks to establish a close relationship with his subjects. The relationship begins with an invitation to the studio, followed by a brief interview to determine who fits best into the project. So far, he has invited dozens of people, with whom he has spent hours, if not days, cultivating closeness and intimacy until he gains their trust with him and the camera. At this point, he asks them to gradually reveal themselves, layer by layer, both physically and mentally, while he covers them with makeup as a mask: hiding on one hand and revealing and uncovering on the other.

During photo sessions, he takes hundreds of pictures in an attempt to capture the precise moment and expression that aligns with his vision. His goal is to bring out the internal emotions to the surface: body, face, gestures, and expression. Bruchstein uses lights and shadows to emphasize mood and emotions as he blurs the boundaries. Colors and layers of makeup are used as accessories to express the inner strength of his models and blur the line between the inner and outer.

Bruchstein’s characters interact with Art History, as well as contemporary androgynous figures. They have eroticism, but it is asexed. The photos are minimalist, yet full of color, contrast, and seduction. The subjects are often photographed with their eyes closed, trapped in their own imaginary world.