We sat down with photographer Marie Laigneau to learn more about her exhibit at Harold Washington Library Center. Laigneau will give an Artist Talk at 2 p.m. July 12. Her exhibit is on display through July 18.
Q: How did you get involved with photography and what made you decide to focus on street photography?
A: I have always loved taking pictures when I was traveling. I was shooting everything and anything at the time—the way the light was playing with an old door, little kids running in the streets, the harsh lines of a modern building… It was a little overwhelming! And then, I made my big move to Chicago. Little by little, I started to see stories everywhere around me, right where I lived – not miles away. Seeking to understand the connection between people and their city became a real obsession for me. It became evident that I was in love with street photography!
Q: We see a lot of grace in your photographs, both in the people and in the setting. Which do you feel inspires you more?
A: It is hard to explain, but what I see when I take a picture is a cohesion of elements coming together to tell a story. Most often, the city and the context are there to give depth and meaning to my subject—this is the intersection of both elements that really inspires me. The city can say so much about us, about our feelings, about our dreams. This relationship—between people and their city – is more than a visual harmony for me; it really is about generating emotions.
Q: Your photographs make Chicago so beautiful. What makes Chicago unique or different from other cities that you have shot in?
A: To me, Chicago is a magnificent city, very quiet, almost silent at times. The contrast between people and architecture is remarkable, and makes me want to tell stories of solitude and loneliness. The neighborhoods, on the other hand, are all about life: I like to capture unique expressions and faces when I go out around Wicker Park and Lincoln Park.
Q: What advice would you give to people who would like to go into photography?
A: Photography is a journey which starts with the willingness to see the world differently. I think that this is a commitment that every artist should do, to him/herself and others. Limiting oneself to following rules and best practices established by others is bound to restrain you to no avail: experiment, go out, fail often and try again. That’s the only way to find who you are.
