July Book of the Month: The Black & White Project
The Black & White Project - Where Simplicity Speaks Volumes.
In a world where colour dominates our visual experiences there exists a profound beauty in the simplicity of black and white. Black and white photography strips away the distractions of colour, leaving the viewer to focus on the core elements of an image: texture, form, and contrast.
“His images have a real ethereal quality, nearly magical!” – Russel Wong
After many years of living in Europe Peter Zaman had decided to move to Asia in 2016 and now lives in Singapore with his family. The book The Black and White Project gives us an insight to Singapore and their architectural history that the country had incorporated into their culture, as they were a part of the British colonial era.
Zaman had used the pandemic lockdowns to build a unique portfolio of unseen landscapes in Singapore. Ranging from The Black and White houses that the British colonist brought with them, all the way to the botanical life of Singapore.
Zaman’s work transcends the ordinary and everyday scenes into striking compositions that evoke a deep sense of nostalgia and emotions. Such as photographer Russel Wong – “I lived in a Black and White house for 20 years, so my passion for them is obvious. As a photographer, I can appreciate the technique Peter has used in his work.”
These houses have become such a statement within Singapore that it is now such a large part of their history.
Zaman's ability to capture the essence of his subjects without the distraction of colour sets him apart in the field of visual art. His Black and White Project is a testament to his skill in utilizing light, shadow, and composition to tell compelling stories.
“Betel nuts are sourced from the Areca palm and are believed to be one of the most popular mind-altering substances in the world. In Asia, it is popular to chew the nut; it gives people a buzz equivalent to drinking six cups of coffee.”
Without the distraction of colour, viewers are drawn into the raw emotion and atmosphere of each image. The stark contrasts and subtle gradations of grey invite consideration and self-analysis. Whether it’s the solitude of an empty street at dawn or the intensity of a direct gaze in a portrait, Zaman’s images evoke a visceral response.
In a digital age dominated by vibrant visuals, Zaman’s dedication to black and white photography is a refreshing homage to the roots of the art form of photography. His project serves as a reminder that sometimes, less is more, and that true artistry lies in the ability to see and capture the world in its most elemental form.
The Black & White Project | ISBN: 9789811878084 | Publication Date: 01/07/2024 | £40.00