DEAR. STEVE 23
DEAR. STEVE 23 is an intimate exploration of the world through the lens of an iPhone, culminating in a book that serves as a visual diary of 2023. This annual collection of raw, unedited photos offers a unique glimpse into the artist's journey, capturing the beauty in everyday moments and the ephemeral nature of life.
The essence of DEAR. STEVE 23 lies in its portrayal of the ordinary as extraordinary, reflecting the belief that “everything is Art & Vice Versa.” By choosing an iPhone over a professional camera, the artist underscores the idea that the power of observation and the way we perceive the world matter more than the tools we use. This book is a testament to the artist's mindful engagement with their surroundings, documenting fleeting moments that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Each photograph in DEAR. STEVE 23 is accompanied by its metadata, inviting viewers to see the world through the artist's eyes and potentially recreate these moments themselves. This feature highlights the universality of human experience, showcasing diverse yet fundamentally connected snapshots from different corners of the globe. Through this collection,DEAR. STEVE 23 reveals that while our experiences and perspectives may vary, there is a shared beauty and humanity in the moments we capture and cherish.
DEAR. STEVE 23 (Extended Mix) is a transformative installation that deconstructs the visual diary of DEAR. STEVE and reimagines it as an expansive, immersive poem. Each page from the original book is displayed on the wall, bearing a single word or symbol, and collectively forming a giant, enigmatic poem. The arrangement of the pages follows a poetic rhythm, intertwining the visual and textual elements to evoke a sense of synthesis that eludes complete certainty—mirroring the ambiguities of real life.
The essence of DEAR. STEVE 23 (Extended Mix) lies in its seamless blend of image and word, each photograph paired with a fragment of verse. This interplay creates a layered experience where the raw and unedited images from the artist’s journey intersect with colloquial and contemporary language. The poem, written in a candid and unfiltered tone, mirrors the authenticity and immediacy of the photographs, offering an unvarnished glimpse into the artist's raw and brutal thoughts.
The installation challenges viewers to engage deeply with the fragmented narrative, deciphering the underlying meaning and emotion. This deliberate ambiguity invites personal interpretation, highlighting the fluidity and subjectivity of human experience. Through this innovative format, the artwork expands the boundaries of traditional photography and poetry, creating a dynamic and thought-provoking exploration of life’s fleeting moments.