Luke Stephenson | An Incomplete Dictionary of Show Birds

LUKE STEPHENSON
An Incomplete Dictionary of Show Birds

“An Incomplete Dictionary of Show Birds” is a visual exploration of a hobby that, for many, remains a world hidden, where bird-keeping and competitive showing intersect. What began as a simple desire to photograph budgies, inspired by the aesthetic of prize pigeon photography, evolved into a deeper fascinating with the world of show birds.

“I was immediately captivated by the vibrant diversity of birds and the dedicated community surrounding them. Over the last 15 years, I have had the privilege of photographing an array of extraordinary species and meeting a great deal of people (mostly men) many of them having devoted their entire lives to breeding, raising, and showing birds. Their passion and knowledge of their feathered companions was generously shared with me, drawing me further into their world.

This project became a personal journey of discovery and collecting through photography. Each image represents a unique species, adding to my growing archive. With every photograph, I metaphorically “collected” these birds, ticking them off from my self-imposed list of species to capture.”

“An Incomplete Dictionary of Show Birds” reflects both the beauty of the birds and the deep connection between hobbyists and their craft. It is a study of the intersection between art and obsession.

Patron of the exhibition: Wedel

Exhibition partner: British Council

__________

» GET TO KNOW THE ARTIST «

Luke Stephenson was born on New Years day, 1983 in Darlington, North East England.

Life in Britain and the British psyche are at the core of Lukes work. He photographs what to many epitomises the eccentricity of Britain. Often humorous in their outlook, his series range from prize budgerigars to the World Beard and Moustache Championships. Whether animate or inanimate objects, Stephenson creates affectionate portraits of his subjects and documents worlds often hidden from the mainstream.

His work has been published in a variety of publications including The New York Times Magazine, The Guardian, Dazed & Confused, Foam, Art Review and Wallpaper*.