Roger Ballen: Boyhood

Description

This new and expanded edition of Roger Ballen's widely acclaimed 1979 photobook Boyhood features new and unpublished images taken by the photographer in the '70. Quoted by Andre Kertesz, Bruce Davidson and Elliott Erwitt as a rare and intimate view of the spirit of youth, these images are able to bring back the childhood of everyone. In photographs and stories, Ballen leads us across the continents of Europe, Asia, and North America in search of boyhood: boyhood as it is lived in the Himalayas of Nepal, the islands of Indonesia, the provinces of China, the streets of America. Each stunning black and white photograph (culled from 15,000 boy photos shot during Ballen's four-year quest of his subject) depicts the magic of boys revealed in their games, their adventures, their dreams, their mischief. Boyhood is able to connect boys all around the world across the borders of nationality and culture. More of an ode or a memory than a literal document, Ballen's first book is as powerful and current today as it was 43 years ago presenting a stunning series of timeless images that transcend social and cultural particularities.

One of the most influential and important photographic artists of the 21st century, Roger Ballen's photographs span over forty years. His strange and extreme works confront the viewer and challenge them to come with him on a journey into their own minds as he explores the deeper recesses of his own. Born in New York City in 1950, Roger Ballen has lived in South Africa for thirty years, and is one of the most famous photographers of his generation. Son of the Editor-in-Chief at Magnum Photo, Ballen was thirteen when photography caught his attention. His work as a geologist took him out into the countryside and led him to take up his camera and explore the hidden world of small South African towns. At first, he explored the empty streets in the glare of the midday sun but, once he had made the step of knocking on people's doors, he discovered a world inside these houses, which was to have a profound effect on his work.

Full of roaring exuberant fellowship.--Tom Whyman "Elephant"