Photographing the 'chosen family' – Nan Goldin and Rene Matić
Join V&A Parasol Foundation Curator of Women in Photography Fiona Rogers and artist Rene Matić as they deconstruct a photograph by one of the most influential artists of our generation to reveal its power and significance.
Taken by photographer and activist Nan Goldin, this striking snapshot of drag queen Misty is a perfect example of her pioneering approach to photography. This image is part of a larger series titled The Ballad of Sexual Dependency – a pictorial journey documenting and celebrating Goldin's 'chosen family' of Bohemian friends, drug addicts, the queer community, clubbers and lovers.
Exploring similar themes, but with a very contemporary take, Rene Matić reveals the influence and impact of Goldin's work on their own practice documenting their 'chosen family'.
00:00 Who are Misty and Joey?
01:09 What is Nan Goldin's approach to photography?
02:42 Nan Goldin's upbringing and influences
04:11 Why is this image so important for Rene Matić?
05:53 How was the photograph originally presented?
06:42 Influence of Nan Goldin on Rene Matić's practice
07:30 Rene Matić on representing Britishness
08:20 Similarities: visualising and celebrating
09:01 Differences: photographing vulnerable people
10:25 A focus on positivity
Rene Matić
https://www.renematic.com/
Photography at the V&A
https://www.vam.ac.uk/collections/pho...
The Parasol Foundation Women in Photography Project
https://www.vam.ac.uk/info/women-in-p...