Isabella Koz, Wesleyan University
Series of 11 digital photographs
From the artist: My work explores the intersection of photography and architecture, with an emphasis on evoking vulnerability in the viewer. In this series of images, I focus on the interplay of light, form, and domestic spaces, inviting contemplation on the relationship between environment and human experience.
These photographs aim to establish a sense of intimacy by capturing seemingly mundane moments—two figures in conversation or quiet domestic spaces—while using light to blur emotional boundaries. The subjects, often pairs, interact in ways that feel both familiar and distant, offering a glimpse into the nuances of human connection. The tension created by the minimal compositions and sparse settings encourages viewers to confront their own feelings of exposure, empathy, and reflection.
My approach is influenced by my background in architecture and film, allowing me to fuse spatial awareness with cinematic storytelling. By deconstructing spaces and focusing on elemental design choices—such as the placement of light or the positioning of figures—I create compositions that aim to resonate on both emotional and architectural levels. This ongoing exploration speaks to the themes I plan to pursue further in my mixed-media thesis, combining photography and architectural forms to examine how space influences our sense of vulnerability and connection.