"Just as a drop of water belongs to the ocean, the moment belongs to eternity. You make a photo to look at and preserve a piece of time, that is, a moment to return to." - George Oddner
Georg Oddner was an internationally renowned jazz drummer when he discovered photography. He began as an assistant to fashion photographer Richard Avedon in New York in 1950. In 1951 he moved from Stockholm to Malmö. 1955 was somewhat of "Jojje's" year. During trips to South America and the Soviet Union, he took a series of famous photographs. In 1956, new trips to India and Japan, among others, and the separate exhibition "Photographic Journey" at the Malmö Museum awaited him.
Georg Oddner also worked with cinema, often together with his friend Jan Troell. He had Russian roots, which his middle name Mirsky ("peaceful") speaks of, and has been in restless development over the years.
Georg Oddner's photography conveys a variety of emotions and reflections, thanks to his ability to combine refined aesthetic elements with a profound human sensitivity. Here are some key aspects of what his photographs manage to convey:
Elegance and Refinement: His fashion photographs are characterized by a timeless elegance. Oddner knew how to capture the beauty of his subjects in a sophisticated and stylistically impeccable way, creating images that are both classic and innovative.
Psychological Depth: In his portraits, Oddner was able to penetrate beyond the surface, revealing the essence of the people photographed. His subjects often appear contemplative, thoughtful, or emotionally charged, offering observers a window into their soul.
Human Condition: His documentary photographs explore universal themes such as poverty, industrialization and everyday life. Oddner knew how to find beauty and dignity in often difficult situations, making humanity visible in varied and complex contexts.
Contrasts and Atmosphere: Oddner's images often play with strong contrasts and a skilful use of light and shadows, creating intense and suggestive atmospheres. This technique allows him to add a dramatic and mysterious dimension to his works.
Telling Stories: Each of Oddner's photographs seems to tell a story. Whether it is a portrait, a scene of everyday life or a fashion image, there is always an underlying narrative that invites the viewer to reflect and imagine the context and story behind the image.
Salvatore Da Cha'
Some shots taken from the official website
Collections with Georg Oddner's photographs can be found, among others, at the Hasselblad Foundation (contact Cecilia Sandblom, cecilia.sandblom@hasselbladfoundation.org ), Magasin III (info@magasin3.com) and at the Abecita Art Museum ( info@abecitakonst.se ).
Nice