Yvonne A by Rylsky
I haven’t had the pleasure of critiquing a Met Art pictorial by prolific artist Rylsky for what feels like a long time — too long, certainly looking at Yvonne. After examining only a handful of images from this set I’m reminded of this photographer’s multi-facetted talent. His technical skills are exemplary, of course, and this set is no exception. In terms of lighting, composition, a wide range of poses — from headshots, to figure studies, to detailed explicit close-ups — Rylsky can be counted on to deliver, and that’s absolutely the case here. But beyond technique and style, Rylsky has two unique and outstanding abilities.
First, the man has a rare knack for discovering fresh talent, and his latest find, Yvonne A is a genuine delight. She’s young — only 19 when this series was lensed — natural, and absolutely brimming with appealing energy. And second, Rylsky not only finds new models, he has a way of connecting with them and coaxing the finest performances from them. He’s not simply photographing a physical body, he’s always striving to capture the emotions and genuine personality of his subject. And he’s absolutely achieved that with “Presenting” Yvonne A.
Yvonne A is a living doll. Not just physically, but in her energy and personality. Her smile, on display in the majority of images here, is warm, lively, and completely sincere. That smile is a natural and infallible mood-elevator. One look at those blue eyes and that bright smile and the viewer can’t help but smile along with her. What a cutie!
“Presenting” takes place in what appears to be a log cabin in a rustic yet suburban setting. Yvonne first poses in an open window, and then moves into the room with its rough-hewn interior. It’s an unusual setting, but Yvonne appears completely comfortable and at ease. She’s also comfortable and at ease sharing herself without a shred of inhibition. A girl next door type like Yvonne A would be welcome in any neighborhood — and I hope we see much more of her soon here at MetArt and over at the artist’s personal site, Rylsky Art.
Yvonne A Preview Galleries: Presenting Yvonne
Art Nude Models: Met Art information.
