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About this series
The AI series Lost in Non-Place by artist Mirkolis is a visual and ethereal exploration of relations between human beings and spaces.
In the realm of conceptual post-photography, the evocative project titled Lost in Non-Place emerges as a poignant tribute to the late Prof. Marc Aurè. Delving into the nuanced anthropology of space, this collection of 23 singular black and white post-photographs captures the essence of non-places, a concept meticulously crafted by Prof. Aurè before his passing.
The term 'non-place,' derived from the French 'non-lieu,' encapsulates a dualistic concept. It delineates spaces meticulously designed for specific functions—be it transportation, commerce, leisure, or recreation—and the intricate relationships formed between individuals within these spaces. Prof. Marc Augé discerns non-places as antithetical to anthropological spaces, characterizing them as non-identitarian, relational, and devoid of historical resonance.
Within the frame of these AI-works, non-places manifest as the essential structures facilitating the swift movement of people and goods—motorways, junctions, airports—alongside modes of transport, expansive shopping centers, outlets, refugee camps, waiting rooms, elevators, and more. In these spaces, countless individualities intersect without forging connections, spurred either by the fervor of consumption, the acceleration of daily routines, or as gateways to tangible or symbolic transformations.
Contrary to expectations, the experience within non-places is not tinged with monotony but rather imbued with a positive valence. Users exhibit a remarkable indifference to the homogeneity of shopping centers or the repetitiveness of commercial structures, finding comfort in the predictability of their favorite restaurant chains or the standardized layouts of airports worldwide. This paradox manifests as the transient voyager, lost in an unfamiliar land, seeking solace only in the anonymity of motorways, gas stations, and other non-places.
As time unfolds, non-places undergo transformation, fostering increased interactions among people. However, a subtle sense of alienation persists, a consequence of the seriality and standardization inherent in these spaces. This series of images by Mirkolis serves as a captivating spin-off from a larger project slated for release in 2024.
The female subjects depicted in the photographs are deliberately positioned with their backs to the viewer, at times standing, at times seated, often accompanied by symbolic objects like bags and suitcases, emblematic of transition. Each image bears the title of the overarching project and the photograph meticulously handwritten. The black and white aesthetic, enriched with delicate selenium toning, pays homage to the traditions of analogue photography. Notably, each NFT within this collection bears the artist's signature at the bottom right, a testament to the unique and authentic nature of this artistic endeavor.
Artist Bio
Italian based Mirkolis stands as a conceptual and reportage photographer, navigating the intricate realms of art with a unique perspective as an individual on the autism spectrum. A fervent crypto enthusiast and NFT collector since 2018, Mirkolis's professional journey extends into the philanthropic sector, contributing his skills to a foundation dedicated to disability advocacy.
At the heart of Mirkolis's photographic endeavors lies a profound exploration of anthropology, delving into the complexities of the human experience with a keen focus on language, social dynamics, and environmental interactions. His dedicated research centers on neurodivergence, aiming to dismantle societal stigmas and dispel stereotypes surrounding this subject. Mirkolis employs an innovative approach, utilizing experimental photographs and post-photography techniques to articulate his concepts. His artistic vision prioritizes narrative over mere aesthetic allure, weaving compelling stories that challenge perceptions and foster a deeper understanding of neurodivergence.
Photographer: Mirkolis
Instagram: @mirkolis
Campfire: Lost in Non-Place
Twitter: @Hans__AI
Photos copyright Mirkolis
DRAWLIGHTS | 1/1 – one post/one photographer, weekly. Off-chain and on-chain. By Peter Nitsch, lens-based artist, a member of NFT Now 🌐 and lifetime Member of the Royal Photographic Society of Thailand.