Ricky Barel's Minimalist Photography: Reducing the World to Subject and Background
Ricky Barel, known on Instagram as @rickybarel, focuses his photography on a clear subject and background, removing unnecessary details. His images often showcase solitary human or architectural forms against uniform backdrops, akin to a theatrical setting. One photograph features a man reclining in milky water while reading a newspaper, while another shows a figure in a kimono positioned in front of identical ATMs against a vivid red wall. Frequently employing high-angle shots, Barel reduces figures to minor components within larger compositions, highlighting negative space and natural hues. His intention is to inspire viewers to embrace simplicity and take their time, providing a contemplative visual journey rather than an instant reaction.
Key facts
- Ricky Barel is a photographer.
- His images focus on the relationship between a single subject and a plain background.
- He works by subtraction, eliminating visual clutter from his compositions.
- An example: a man floating in milk-colored water reading a newspaper.
- An example: a kimono-clad figure standing before two ATMs against a red wall.
- An example: a Sicilian balcony with a shadow on cream plaster.
- He frequently uses elevated perspectives to turn human figures into small elements within larger patterns.
- He favors negative space and natural colors, aiming to slow down the viewer's gaze.
- His work contrasts with the trend toward immediate impact in photography.
Entities
Artists
- Ricky Barel
Locations
- Sicily
- Italy