The Brvtalist is pleased to feature a new book published by Steidl titled "Dusk". Fine art and fashion photographer Axel Hoedt presents an incredible examination of carnival culture in southwestern Germany, and extends it into Austria and Switzerland. The idea behind the project is to undermine traditional carnival cliche's. "Dusk" represents the carnival's original purpose - a celebration before the dawning of hard times.

Hoedt utilizes his background in fashion and portrait photography to capture incredible moments and the emotions of the subjects. Do not expect ring masters, ballerinas and trapeze artists, "Dusk" travels deep into a world of another sort - one that holds great cultural, sociological and economic importance. Hoedt photographs the revelers in earnest poses, static against a bright background, in a forest or next to rural buildings, juxtaposing classic studio photography, Polaroid snapshots and still- life imagery.

We were instantly transfixed by these photographs. They have a very quiet, pensive feeling, while bursting with symbolization. "Dusk" builds upon the foundation that "Once a Year" (Steidl, 2013) laid. Published in two volumes, the series focuses on the figures and masks of pre-Lenten carnival festivities and the colorful, yet somber feeling that surrounds the participants. This is an amazing book that looks at both carnival culture and portraiture in a whole new way. Out now on Steidl.

-JRS

*click to enlarge