Music and photography share an intriguing quality: both can encapsulate a moment, an emotion, a narrative, within a confined space. New York-based photographer Laura Brunisholz has masterfully intertwined these two forms of art in her ongoing photo series, “Musicians”.
Starting her venture in Brussels, 2018, during her time at the art school ERG, Brunisholz delved into the city’s music scene. This wasn’t a grandiose affair with elaborate sets; it began with her approaching local artists, offering them a chance to be immortalized through her lens. As she built her portfolio in Brussels, she seamlessly continued her passion project upon moving to the heart of New York City in 2022.
Brunisholz’s choice of subjects, ranging from Belgian and French artists to international acts like China’s ShuShu and New York’s Dasychira, provides a diverse representation of the global music industry. These aren’t just random selections. Many of these musicians are her friends or acquaintances made through the powerful platform of social media.
Her photography sessions’ ambiance is often casual, akin to taking a Polaroid with a friend. Yet, the resulting photographs are anything but ordinary. They resonate with a narration, a blend of intimacy and professionalism, often captured in settings as simple as New York’s nocturnal streets, rooftops, or even Brunisholz’s bedroom.
Born in Paris, 1996, Laura Brunisholz’s journey from studying psychology to becoming a notable figure in the experimental music photography scene is inspiring. Her roots in psychology and education at ERG instilled in her an ability to see beyond the facade, capturing artists’ souls in their most genuine form. With a signature style that combines the feel of amateur snapshots with high-art, her photographs evoke a nostalgic love for Americana and Y2K culture.
Having shot famed artists such as Manuka Honey and Dasychira, and directed music videos for talents like Dviance and Grammy Award-winning artist La Favi, Laura’s contributions to the music scene are undeniable. Moreover, her affiliation with radio stations, notably as a producer and photographer at The Lot in Brooklyn, adds another feather to her cap. For those unfamiliar, The Lot Radio, situated intriguingly in a shipping container, is a beacon for NYC’s music aficionados, regularly featuring live sets by both local and international DJ sensations.
Brunisholz’s work, gracing platforms like Tank TV, the japanese AVYSS Magazine or the Belgian counterculture print publication, Not So Difficult Magazine, transcends traditional music photography. It’s a testament to her artistry, her ability to delve deep into a musician’s psyche, and the profound connection between the viewer, the subject, and the environment.
As the music industry continues its constant evolution, artists like Laura Brunisholz remind us of the importance of pausing, reflecting, and truly seeing the souls behind the melodies. In a world that often feels fleeting, her photographs offer permanence – a chance to truly connect.
Discover more about Laura Brunisholz and her captivating works through her website and Instagram. Additionally, for those keen on exploring The Lot Radio, visit their official website and Instagram profile.
