Personal Statement by US-photographer Leila JEFFREYS

"I wonder what would it be like to experience the world as a Gouldian finch? What would the world look like from their perspective? To nest in tree hollows or termite mounds and search for seed as a member of a small flock. This intimate portrait makes me marvel at their beauty and dream of seeing life through their eyes." (© Leila JEFFREYS)

Background information

'Des Oiseaux' by Leila JEFFREYS is another title in this series of photo books that celebrates, through the vision of various artists, their immense presence in a world where they are vulnerable today. Accompanying these photographs, the ornithologist Guilhem Lesaffre shows the relationship with the seasons, which is a fundamental aspect of the life of birds.

Content

With this book, Leila JEFFREYS takes us on a journey through tropical forests and jungles all over the world to see amazing bird species, which she has been portraying in her studio since 2008. "I noticed for a long time how many birds have specific expressions, just like us," she explains. Leila JEFFREY's paintings, which are based on a deep connection to her sitters cultivated over many years, are an exercise in skill and empathy. By cultivating the art of waiting, Leile JEFFREY develops a gallery of bizarre and hyper-realistic portraits in which all birds are dressed in their most beautiful splendor with magnificent plumage colors. One by one they let their character shine through: graceful, mischievous, shy, proud, shy, posing, all of them seeming to want to chat with the viewer. Their practice underlines how humans anthropomorphize animals and what we really share with each other.

Variant

Accompanying the release of the book 'Des Oiseaux' by Spanish photographers Leila JEFFREYS the publisher offers a limited edition box set a copy of the publication and a signed and numbered photographic print made by the artist: Orange-Headed Gouldian Finch. Details: Limited edition box set in a slipcase,with a signed and numbered print from 1-30. Print size: 19,5 x 24,5 cm.