World catalog of skin tones Humanæ

Every day photographers around the world looking for new ways to tell stories or to capture what we previously did not notice. We choose interesting photo projects and ask their authors what they wanted to say. This week is the Humanæ series of the Brazilian photo artist Angelica Dass: an open project in which she explores the ideas of the human community and individuality.

This series - the so-called work in progress: an attempt to catalog and reveal the whole range of shades of human skin. I do not conduct any selection of heroes and shoot all those who like the project and who are ready to take part in it. Within its framework there is no division by nationality, gender, age, race, social class or religion. As there is no clear task to complete it by any specific date. This project is open in all senses, and it will include everyone who wants to be part of this colossal earth mosaic. By and large, it can be completed only when the entire population of the planet is represented in it.

All pictures were taken on a single clear principle: the background is filled with a color identical to a sample of 11x11 pixels from the face of the hero. This is a very simple metaphor: the sociopolitical context is replaced by impartial media and guides, where mixed hues are just as important as the primary colors. This approach also removes the artist’s figure and power from the project, which is usually concentrated in the hands of the photographer. This is a universal visual code that is understandable to all people. By the way, I am open to cooperation with different institutions in different countries, and I will be glad to come to Russia to remove a part of Humanæ. So if you are interested in my work, please email me.