For the Love of DOGS by Stephen Albair

The intimate bond between human and canine forms the heart of Stephen Albair's latest series of tableau photographs that culminates into a new book titled DOGS, a collection of 28 photographs that bring man's best friend to life in imaginative, theatrical scenarios. Each image is a carefully crafted allegory composed of found objects meticulously arranged in confined spaces. These autobiographical visual narratives explore the fine line between what is real and what feels merely realistic.

Albair's work is marked by his masterful use of natural sunlight, illuminating his intricate vignettes with warmth and immediacy. The resulting images are deeply personal, blurring the boundaries between reality and art. Each tableau invites viewers into a moment that feels like it is either unfolding in real-time or poignantly preserved in memory.

In her endorsement of Albair’s DOGS, Ann Jastrab, Executive Director at the Center for Photographic Art, writes, ''This book pays homage to our cherished canine friends who have journeyed alongside us, captured like performers on a timeless stage. It opens the door to a world of compelling images and deeply emotional narratives rooted in our love for dogs.''

Interwoven with these striking photographs are three intimate stories of dogs from Albair's past, adding depth and context to the collection. These narratives enrich the visual tableaus, offering a thought-provoking exploration of dogs as they are: quirky, loyal, and endearing. With this new series of images, he has created more than a book—it's an emotional tribute and an artistic celebration of the timeless connection between humans and their canine companions.
~Frank Barnes, editor

Stephen Albair

Stephen Albair was born in Massachusetts and raised in New Hampshire. He currently lives and works in San Francisco. Educated at Illinois State University in Design, he is a self-taught photographer, lecturer and a college teacher, for over 40 years. His work in tableau photography began in 1974 with the purchase of a 35mm Nikkormat, which has remained the only camera for his work. Numerous exhibitions and installations have been staged in the US and Thailand. He has authored three books with a fourth book currently in progress. The images are mostly rooted in memoir built on found objects with Art Historical references. The focus is not so much on a series of images but rather a board range of subject matter, from early memories, to the current political landscape. His photos represent intuitive responses to ideas through self-reflection. By mastering the techniques of tableaux photography he has created a significant body of work that have enhanced his skill as an artist and storyteller.

expand_circle_rightstephenalbair.com

expand_circle_right@stephen_albair

expand_circle_rightAll about Stephen Albair