Renowned fine art photographer Alex ten Napel extends his mastery of portraiture beyond the realm of humans in his captivating Chickens, Hens, and Roosters series. Departing from conventional subjects, ten Napel captures the grace and allure of our feathered companions against minimalist backgrounds, predominantly in striking black or white hues.
These portraits not only showcase the innate elegance of chickens but also highlight the intricate details that define their beauty.
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“The genesis of this avian-focused venture occurred during a leisurely breakfast on a French vacation in 2014. Seated on the ground, ten Napel found inspiration when a curious chicken approached him. This chance encounter, where human and fowl shared a unique perspective, ignited the idea that would redefine his artistic trajectory.
Reflecting on this moment, ten Napel recounts, “Because we were, in a matter of speaking, on the same level, I saw her in a different perspective and noticed different aspects. She was sociable, funny, touching, and curious. She was so human! At the same period, I was looking for a new subject to photograph. I had made many portrait series and had the idea that I had to change course. So why not portray hens and roosters?”
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“Eagerly diving into the project, ten Napel immersed himself in understanding his new subjects. Extensive visits to the Poultry Museum in Barneveld became a crucial aspect of his research, allowing him to explore the coops and study 17th-century paintings of poultry by renowned Dutch artists.
The result of this meticulous observation and dedication was the realization that he had stumbled upon something truly exceptional in the captivating personalities of hens and roosters. In his quest to redefine the boundaries of portrait photography, Alex ten Napel discovered a profound connection between artistry and the charismatic world of our feathered friends.”
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