Frank Ockenfels 3: “Introspection”

Throughout his work in “Introspection,” now on display at the Museum Fotografiska through the ninth of March, one can see how Frank Ockenfels 3 utilizes everything from the distortion of a human figure to the use of vivid red paint to make his vision a reality. The work of the American photographer is often praised for its novel use of light and found elements.

Ockenfels constantly pushes the boundaries of what’s possible by using a wide array of cameras, lenses and lighting instruments. Every one of his portraits is an experiment. Much like a scientist, Ockenfels records his findings in journals he keeps in stacks around his Los Angeles studio. What began as a physical record of the camera and technology he had used to capture his subjects became a way for Ockenfels to document his mental state during his many hours of shooting. In “Introspection,” many of his journals are presented alongside his more “traditional” works. (Pictured on the left-hand side are a few dozen of Ockenfels’ journals on display as part of the exhibition.) What was made clear during my visit to the exhibition is Ockenfels’ lack of “style” in the traditional sense.  

“That’s why my style is all over the place because I like that it mixes up.” 

Ockenfels is keen on allowing each of his portraits to stand out, attracting the onlooker with their unique elements and composition. Rather than stick to his medium, he regularly brings in elements of collage and illustration. In some of his works, Ockenfels frames his portraits using thick packing tape, a first in the world of photography. His work, however, isn’t limited to bold portraits. His most recent exhibition includes illustrations resembling those of the late cultural icon Jean-Michel Basquiat. The exhibition includes original works on everything from newspaper clippings to skateboards. As the Pennsylvania-born portrait photography icon nears his 65th birthday, I am eager to see in what other ways he will challenge the definition of traditional photography.