We previously sang the praises of Ukrainian-born photographer Boris Mikhailov’s portraits of the alcohol addiction-afflicted poor in post communist Eastern Europe. His work is ruthless and difficult; it intrigues and repels. For his new book The Wedding , one particular narrative has been plucked from his Case History series archives. Mikhailov “commissioned” a homeless couple to simulate a wedding, posing for mock portraits and celebrating their union in their own surroundings. The resulting photos have been published in a bound, faux-leather, gold calligraphy-debossed imitation of a traditional wedding album. These are hard to look at, but it’s also hard to look away. Through their playful belligerence, we see the reality of the destitute conditions of the outcasts living in Russia without social support or care. And just maybe, we see wedding ceremonies themselves in a different light. Leaf through a few photos from the “album” in our slide show.
Photo credit: Boris Mikhailov. Courtesy Sprovieri Gallery and Morel Books
Photo credit: Boris Mikhailov
Photo credit: Boris Mikhailov
Photo credit: Boris Mikhailov
Photo credit: Boris Mikhailov
Photo credit: Boris Mikhailov
Photo credit: Boris Mikhailov
Photo credit: Boris Mikhailov
Photo credit: Boris Mikhailov
Photo credit: Boris Mikhailov