The photographic exploration 'Family Stories' provides an intimate insight into the photographer's personal world. The different time periods within the family play an important role. The work consists of two parts. The first part features photographs taken in Germany and explores, among other things, the question of BIPoC belonging in a white majority society. The second part traces the photographer's US family roots and tells of black identity.
In addition to the family history, the work also includes aspects of African-American history, particularly as reflected in the city of Atlanta, Georgia. The medium of photography is used as a means of changing traditional power dynamics and narratives in order to convey a self-determined image.
"This book is about my family history. Moments and memories captured in pictures. A kind of family album that transforms from a personal microcosm of one's own life into something comprehensive".
Group Exhibition
From 9 February to 26 May 2024, the Folkwang Museum in Essen presented Photography Masters, a group exhibition showcasing selected final projects by graduates of the Master’s program Photography Studies and Practice at Folkwang University of the Arts. Bringing together six artistic positions, the exhibition explored diverse approaches to photographic presentation and technique, offering a wide spectrum of contemporary reflections on the medium.
The exhibited works include a photobook printed on Profibulk paper, consisting of two volumes: one softcover with 64 pages and one hardcover with 144 pages, each measuring 21.5 × 26.0 cm. In addition, a wallpaper and wall design on non-woven wallpaper with wall paint, developed in collaboration with Anton Van Volxem, is presented at a scale of 205.0 × 250.0 cm. The framed image on view originates from the artist’s family archive.
Family Stories
The work comes in a slipcase with an embossed design and includes two volumes: one softcover with 64 pages and one hardcover with 144 pages.
Both books are printed on Profibulk paper in high-quality print and measure 21.5 × 26.0 cm.
Photography and text are by Ardelle Schneider, who is also responsible for the design, editing, and self-publishing of the limited editions, released in July 2023.
