Exploring the Intersection of Photography and Identity: A Conversation with Jeanette Spicer

Welcome to our latest episode, where we delve into the fascinating world of photography and identity through the lens of Jeanette Spicer, a visual artist and editorial photographer. In this episode of the “10 Frames Per Second” podcast, Jeanette shared her journey, inspirations, and the unique perspectives she brings to her work. Let’s explore the highlights of this insightful conversation.

Who is Jeanette Spicer?

Jeanette Spicer is a visual artist and editorial photographer based in Queens, New York. With an MFA from Parsons, The New School, Jeanette has participated in numerous residencies and published two monographs:

• Sea (See): Published in 2018 by Kris Grave Projects.


• To the Ends of the Earth: Published by Gost Books in fall 2024, this work spans a 12-year period, exploring the dynamics of a relationship between a lesbian, her straight mother, and her girlfriend.

The Motivation Behind the Work

Jeanette’s work is deeply personal and aims to fill a gap in visual representation. She noticed a lack of imagery depicting lesbians interacting with straight parents and sought to create a narrative that reflects these underrepresented dynamics. Her work is not just about capturing moments but about constructing worlds and realities that she wishes to see.

Key Themes in Jeanette’s Photography

Identity and Representation

Jeanette emphasizes the importance of representing the lesbian experience in her work. She believes in the power of specificity and the need to highlight diverse experiences within the LGBTQ+ community. Her work challenges the mainstream narrative and seeks to provide visibility to marginalized voices.

Experimentation and Technique

Jeanette’s approach to photography is eclectic and experimental. She utilizes various techniques such as:

• Solarized Photograms


• Collage


• Fabric Juxtapositions

These methods allow her to create images that are both visually striking and conceptually rich.

The Role of Trust and Power Dynamics

In her portraiture, Jeanette is acutely aware of the power dynamics between the photographer and the subject. She prioritizes consent and comfort, often asking her subjects about their boundaries and preferences. This approach fosters a collaborative environment where authentic interactions can unfold.

Influences and Inspirations

Jeanette draws inspiration from a range of photographers, including:

• Francesca Woodman: Known for her exploration of the female body and space.


• Sally Mann and Emmett Gowin: Influential in their use of large format imagery and portraiture.


• Jen Davis: Recognized for her unique use of lighting and self-portraiture.

The Future of Jeanette’s Work

Jeanette is currently working on extending her project “What It Means to Be Here,” which involves exploring defunct lesbian spaces and creating unique darkroom prints. This project aims to capture the essence of these lost spaces and the communities that once thrived there.

Conclusion

Jeanette Spicer’s work is a testament to the power of photography as a tool for storytelling and representation. By challenging norms and exploring new techniques, she continues to push the boundaries of visual art. Her dedication to representing the lesbian experience and her innovative approach make her a significant voice in contemporary photography.

For more insights into Jeanette’s work, you can visit her website and explore her published books. Stay tuned for more episodes of the “10 Frames Per Second” podcast, where we continue to explore the world of photojournalism and visual storytelling.

Photojournalism, podcast, visual artist, editorial photographer, Queens, New York, MFA, Parsons, Vermont Studio Center, Wassaic Project, Benico Arte, monograph, Kris Grave Projects, Gost Books, lesbian relationships, straight parents, New York Times, New York Magazine, The New Yorker, Vogue, Women WMN, marginalized communities, truth in images, psychoanalysis, EMDR, heteronormative world, patriarchal society, lesbian representation, LGBTQ+, darkroom, solarization.

The post Episode 155: Jeanette Spicer (Documentary Photography) first appeared on 10FPS A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone.