Photo student challenges archetype of female beauty

Sarah Tennant, a senior photography major at Carroll University, is exhibiting images created with funds from an artist project grant. She was one of 10 Pioneer Scholars in summer 2013, working one-on-one with mentor Philip Krejcarek, professor of art. Her project was titled, “From Steichen to LaChapelle: Discovering the Art of Fashion Photography through Exploration and Creation.”

“Images of women in the media have long been credited with changing the way women see themselves and our cultural perceptions of beauty and desirability,” Sarah said. “The photographer, in this sense, wields considerable cultural influence. As cultural norms and values have evolved, so too has photography.”

She studied the work of several famous fine art and fashion photographers, including Edward Steichen and David LaChapelle. She then attempted to recreate the work of these artists by emulating their specific techniques and methods. Throughout her project, Sarah constantly researched and integrated into her photographs how media portrays women throughout our society.

Sarah said, “My intent was to examine the historical and cultural context in which photographers have been a part, from the early 1900s to the present. With my research and exploration, I also examined the relationship between fine art and fashion photography to further my personal development and create work that exemplifies my sense of self as an artist.”

Sarah’s soccer teammates were models for the project. The Marceil Pultorak Atrium Gallery in Humphrey Art Center, 238 N. East Ave., Waukesha, features 22 of her photographs. The exhibit will be displayed through Monday, Nov. 4, 2013. A reception will follow the 11 a.m. women’s soccer game on Sunday, Oct. 27.