Julia Baum – A Rare Breed

October 22, 2009 · by oitzarisme · in xLegacy

“A redhead myself, I use the photographic portrait to investigate elements of what makes the red-haired person so unique. My project was initiated by a widely printed rumor that redheads are going extinct. While the rumor proved to be false, I began documenting my red-haired subjects to preserve their legacy.
As only 1% of the entire human population, our distinctive coloring is a defining feature from day one. We are used to being one in a crowd and regularly noted for our appearance. Experiencing life in this way from infancy through adulthood influences who we are. As a natural redhead, I know our hair color affects more than just how we look.
Throughout the series, while the red hair gene is constant, each coloration and personality within the series exemplifies a unique manifestation. In A Rare Breed, I take advantage of the radiant light of my daylight studio to examine the outward appearance and inner character my subjects present. Depicting individuals in front of a simple white background, I allow the viewer to examine the nuance of each shade of red in an intimate series of photographs.”