When Dierk Maass embarks on his expeditions and picks up his camera, the experience and challenge of pushing his own physical and mental limits become a crucial prerequisite for his artistic process. The hours spent hiking in high altitudes, where the air is gradually taken away with each step, reduce the focus to the essential. This is evident in the artist’s minimalistic photo equipment, which usually only includes two to three lenses and never a tripod. It is also reflected in his portraits and landscape shots. Even the titles of his works are limited to the essential: they simply give the GPS coordinates of where they were taken.
The essential remains. In the series SENSE° OF ‘DISTANCE“, INCIDENT° OF ‘LIGHT“, and HIGHWAY° TO‘ HEAVEN”, the self-taught artist plays with intentional overexposure and partial blurriness. Backgrounds disappear, outlines become blurred, and colors become important points of reference. The essential remains. HIGHWAY° TO‘ HEAVEN“ reveals the many elements of the lovingly constructed memorial sites, known as Animitas, along the busy Pan-American Highway. The camera’s focus is on what reminds people of those who are no longer with us.
TENSION° OF‘ SECLUSION“ captures abandoned, inhospitable areas. Nature reclaims what was once hers: overgrown buildings and machinery, as well as untouched lagoons, surreal color schemes, and breathtaking landscapes bear witness to the traces of human civilization.
What has always been and will remain for a long time to come: the secluded Dolpo region in Nepal. The originality and authenticity of the people there have captivated Dierk Maass, inspiring him to create a series titled SHADES° OF‘ DOLPO“. The weather-beaten face of an old woman that reflects the barren landscape and the demanding living conditions; Sherpas who proudly defy the high altitudes and extreme temperatures, and the land itself.
www.ftn-books.com has one Maass title available.
