Elger Esser’s impressionist photography at Sfeir Semler Gallery

Born in Stuttgart in 1967 and raised in Rome, German photographer Elger Esser has been exhibiting his artistic work in some of the most prestigious Art Museums in the world since fifteen years, including the Guggenheim Museum in New York and the Centre Pompidou in Paris. “Voyage en Egypte”, his first solo exhibition at the Sfeir Semler Gallery, will feature Esser’s new works from his recent travels, in spring 2011, along the Nile and through the Egyptian landscape, from Luxor to Assouan. As one can easily notice, the artist’s imagination travelled far away from the revolutionary context: fascinated by old postcards, Esser’s shots largely focus on natural and built environments, rivers, seas, and architecture.

The impact of painting and photography from the 19^th century is obvious in his work, the changing of the light being the cornerstone of Esser’s compositions. Catching furtive moments, the artist’s pictures convey an intense impression of timelessness and melancholia. Experimenting with new digital processing technology, Esser retains his ability to capture the sublime in the landscapes he sees around him, using soft focus to increase blurry outlines and forceful light reflections. The resulting images sound like a distant echo of 19^th century Impressionist paintings. A humble tribute to Claude Monet’s landscapes and Pierre -Auguste Renoir glittering touches of light, Esser’s exhibition is a magical experience.

Elger Esser, “Voyage en Egypte” Sfeir Semler Gallery, Tannous Building – 4th FL.-Street 56, Jisr Sector 77 – Quarantine, Beirut

Info: 01 566 550/ beirut@sfeir-semler.com

Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 11am to 6pm

Runs until October 29, 2011

Article published in Time Out Beirut, September 2011