Flor Garduño is renowned as one of the most outstanding representatives of Latin American photography continuing the lineage of the poet-photographers that defined the medium during the 20th century.
Powerful Compositions
Her powerful compositions possess an aura of poetic metaphor. The images have enormous emotional strength imbued with regional symbols, as well as universal signs that touch all of humanity. A mysterious natural light envelops Garduño’s subjects creating a uniquely personal black and white ambiance that emphasizes the sacred aspects and beauty she reveals in familiar people and objects. Instilled in Garduño from her formative years in Mexico is a belief that there is a delicate beauty and a primal quality within the simplest of things which she captures in her photographs.
An Education
Flor Garduño had the privilege to study under Hungarian photographer Kati Horna. She was the darkroom assistant to perhaps Mexico’s best-known photographer, Manuel Alvarez Bravo. These experiences greatly influenced not only Garduño’s aesthetics, but also her technical aptitude.
Mexican Origins
Garduño’s work photographing through remote areas of Mexico and its indigenous people would raise her interest and sensitivity to her Mexican origins. Her work is multi-faceted including folklore, landscapes, portraiture, nudes, and still lifes.
International Acclaim
Garduño’s work has appeared in a number of international exhibitions and in the collections of such respected institutions as the Art Institute of Chicago, The Israel Museum of Jerusalem, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the Museum Ludwig of Cologne, and the Tokyo Fuji Art Museum. Her refined and sophisticated eye as well as perfect control of technical methods creates emotionally powerful and poetically moving photographs.
“I have always worked for my pleasure and delight. If someday I realize that I am doing it for somebody, I think that would be the end.” – excerpt from our interview with Garduño