Mark S. Kornbluth
American, 1966
Mark Kornbluth's artistic journey unfolds through the lens of his profound connection to New York City, a relationship that has spanned three decades. From the moment he first set foot in the city, photographing its vibrant people on location became a calling that has persisted over the years. In the spring of 2020, the city itself became the central focus of Kornbluth's work, particularly honing in on the iconic Times Square and Broadway, places deeply intertwined with his life.
Immersing himself in the Broadway series, now titled DARK, Kornbluth set out to capture the dramatic interplay between the language and narrative embedded in signage and the serene stillness of the mise-en-scene. Despite the emptiness brought about by the pandemic, he uncovered a delightful tension—a sense of Broadway patiently awaiting the promise and renewal that art inevitably delivers. With a background in professional theater and enduring connections to the industry, Kornbluth's work embodies a unique perspective that goes beyond the surface.
The exploration of New York City during and after a period of emptiness led Kornbluth to a broader curiosity about the ways in which the city came to life in the absence of its usual inhabitants. Inspired by Candida Höfer's insight into the clarity that arises when spaces are devoid of people, Kornbluth seeks to be present in the absence, exploring how different neighborhoods shape the city's atmosphere. Reflecting on Thomas Struth's observation that urban structure is an accumulation of decisions, Kornbluth finds meaning in capturing empty streets, delving into the questions of how and why the city breathes in diverse ways.
The allure of ambient light at night, complemented by the glow of billboards and street lights, becomes Kornbluth's improvised studio, revealing the timeless grandeur inherent to New York City. His images transcend mere snapshots; they are multi-faceted compositions, often capturing the essence of more than one night. Echoing the words of Thomas Struth, Kornbluth likens his process to constructing images, transforming them into visual narratives akin to paintings.
Mark Kornbluth's intention is clear—to communicate the captivating visual allure of New York City and the real-time emotions that stir within him. His work invites viewers to join him in this visual odyssey, where each image is a testament to the city's unique essence, captured through the lens of a passionate artist deeply connected to its spirit.
Immersing himself in the Broadway series, now titled DARK, Kornbluth set out to capture the dramatic interplay between the language and narrative embedded in signage and the serene stillness of the mise-en-scene. Despite the emptiness brought about by the pandemic, he uncovered a delightful tension—a sense of Broadway patiently awaiting the promise and renewal that art inevitably delivers. With a background in professional theater and enduring connections to the industry, Kornbluth's work embodies a unique perspective that goes beyond the surface.
The exploration of New York City during and after a period of emptiness led Kornbluth to a broader curiosity about the ways in which the city came to life in the absence of its usual inhabitants. Inspired by Candida Höfer's insight into the clarity that arises when spaces are devoid of people, Kornbluth seeks to be present in the absence, exploring how different neighborhoods shape the city's atmosphere. Reflecting on Thomas Struth's observation that urban structure is an accumulation of decisions, Kornbluth finds meaning in capturing empty streets, delving into the questions of how and why the city breathes in diverse ways.
The allure of ambient light at night, complemented by the glow of billboards and street lights, becomes Kornbluth's improvised studio, revealing the timeless grandeur inherent to New York City. His images transcend mere snapshots; they are multi-faceted compositions, often capturing the essence of more than one night. Echoing the words of Thomas Struth, Kornbluth likens his process to constructing images, transforming them into visual narratives akin to paintings.
Mark Kornbluth's intention is clear—to communicate the captivating visual allure of New York City and the real-time emotions that stir within him. His work invites viewers to join him in this visual odyssey, where each image is a testament to the city's unique essence, captured through the lens of a passionate artist deeply connected to its spirit.
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