ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Photography as Bodily Experience: Artpress Dossier

publication · 2026-04-24

A 1986 article in Artpress explores photography's dual relationship with the human body: as an anatomical and plastic object studied through traditional craftsmanship, and as a performative, experiential medium where the body becomes both subject and instrument. The text argues that beyond conventional photographic studies of the body, there exists a practice of 'photography with the body'—an active, physical engagement where representation emerges from imitation, embodiment, and a tangible confrontation with reality. This reflection continues a line of inquiry initiated in the magazine's previous issue (No. 98). The article is published in the February 1986 edition of Artpress, a French contemporary art magazine.

Key facts

  • The article was published in Artpress in February 1986.
  • It discusses the historical study of the human body by photographers as an anatomical and plastic object.
  • The text distinguishes between 'photography of the body' (traditional study) and 'photography with the body' (performative and experiential).
  • The concept of 'photography with the body' involves imitation, incarnation of the image, and physical trial of reality.
  • The article is a continuation of a reflection started in Artpress issue No. 98.
  • The source is a French contemporary art magazine.
  • The article is titled 'L'expérience photographique ou la photographie avec le corps'.
  • The author is not specified in the provided content.

Entities

Institutions

  • Artpress

Locations

  • France

Sources