Florida, often referred to as the “Sunshine State,” is showcased in glamorous images of aquamarine seas, limitless beaches, towering palm trees and modern structures on a simple online search. However, this region is subjected to more stormy weather than any other part of the USA. In 2022, Hurricane Ian wreaked havoc as the deadliest since 1935 and the third costliest, resulting in damages exceeding $113 billion. As we face increasing global temperatures, specialists caution that occurrences like these will become more common. Anastasia Samoylova (b. 1984) confronts this stark reality through her lens.
Her first showcase in Germany provides a multifaceted insight into the diverse people and locales in the region. It simultaneously depicts their battle with harsh weather conditions and flooding. Images of pink flamingos reflected in undulating pools are juxtaposed with scenes of damaged trees and water-logged armchairs. Such visuals question superficial representations that barely delve beneath the surface. The socio-cultural fabric of the area is also addressed through vivid portraits highlighting political splits. “This paradise is fraught with issues, as my pictures this,” the artist states. “While I utilize recognizable tropic leisure motifs, I depict them not as symbols of prosperity or luxury, but of vulnerability and uncertainty.” Samoylova also draws upon the history of art, referencing the work of influential artists such as Berenice Abbott (1898-1991), Robert Frank (1924-2019), Walker Evans (1903-1975), Joel Meyerowitz (b. 1938), Stephen Shore (b. 1947), and William Eggleston (b. 1939).
Born in Moscow and now residing in Miami, Samoylova integrates symbols of ecology and consumer culture into her innovative, collage-like compositions, creating a visual that’s reminiscent of an American fantasy. This body of work paints a complicated image of the state, revealing its multilayered and often contradictory identity. “I believe that photographs typically raise more questions than they answer. That is their true strength.” This perspective informs the exhibit, presenting a fragmented image of a land that seems familiar but has been utterly transformed.
C/O Berlin | On Display till May 4
co-berlin.org
Composed by: Eleanor Sutherland
Image Credits:
1. Anastasia Samoylova, Venus Mirror, Miami, (2020).
2. Anastasia Samoylova, Blue Velvet Chair, (2020).
3. Anastasia Samoylova, Flamingo Reflection, (2018).
