A first review of "On the Sixth Day"
A Profound Dive into Rural Existence by Alessandra Sanguinetti
Alessandra Sanguinetti's "On the Sixth Day" is a poignant testimony to the intricacies of life and the intimate stories often hidden from the human gaze. Set against the backdrop of a humble Argentine farm, the book captures the raw essence of its animal inhabitants, weaving tales of their struggles, joys, adventures, and ultimate fates. As someone with rural roots, I'm deeply drawn into this world, reminded of the land's pulse and the silent narratives it cradles.
The magic of Sanguinetti's lens lies in its ability to offer an immersive experience. In "On the Sixth Day," she humanizes the animals, allowing them to emerge from the generalized shadows of livestock to beings with emotions, desires, and fears. The colors are rich and almost surreal, reminiscent of classic fables or children’s tales replete with life's lessons. However, these vibrant hues also mask an underlying theme of transience and vulnerability, as the looming human presence threatens the animals' existence.
Yet Sanguinetti's prowess isn't confined to the realms of Argentine farmlands. In "Some Say Ice," she delves into the mysteries of Black River Falls, Wisconsin, a location steeped in a haunting history. Her introduction to this enigmatic place began as a child with the "Wisconsin Death Trip" – a series of photographs by Charles Van Schaick from the late 1800s. The stark portrayal of the town's residents and their relentless challenges left an indelible mark on Sanguinetti, much like my own captivation with the book. This mutual fascination is expressed in "Some Say Ice," where Sanguinetti captures timeless images — from austere, sculptural landscapes to ambiguous portraits teeming with an eerie unease.
What's intriguing is the thematic parallelism between these diverse works. Whether it's the transition from childhood to adulthood in "The Adventures of Guille and Belinda" or the intricate dance of life and death in both "On the Sixth Day" and "Some Say Ice," Sanguinetti masterfully explores the spaces where the real blurs with the imagined. Her works resonate with my aesthetic inclinations, particularly her raw portrayal of life, the juxtaposition of vivid colors with stark realities, and the infusion of fantasy into everyday scenes.
Building on this, I can't help but be deeply moved by Sanguinetti's exploration of mortality, an omnipresent theme across her works. It speaks to the universal human experience, our constant dance with life's fleeting moments, and the looming specter of death. As someone who shares Sanguinetti's fascination with the "Wisconsin Death Trip" and the mystique of Black River Falls, I'm eager to explore this haunting location.
In the grand tapestry of contemporary photography, Alessandra Sanguinetti's works are undeniably standout pieces. "On the Sixth Day" is a profound reflection on our intricate relationships with the world around us, urging introspection and a deeper appreciation of the interconnectedness of life. From the vast landscapes of Argentina to the enigmatic terrains of Wisconsin, Sanguinetti consistently showcases her uncanny ability to capture the heart of her subjects, making her a luminous beacon in the world of photography.