Gregory Crewdson at Marubi Museum of Photography

In the Marubi National Museum of Photography in Shkoder, from 20 December 2024 till 16 March 2025, is open the Exhibition "Eveningside" by American photographer Gregory Crewdson, curated by Jean-Charles Vergne.  The exhibition project was realized in collaboration with Gallerie d'Italia - Intesa Sanpaolo Museum thanks to the support of the Ministry of Economy, Culture and Innovation.

The exhibition is a great opportunity to take a closer look at the photography of Gregory Crewdson, who is known for his large-format prints of cinematic scenes, where every detail is meticulously thought out and planned in advance. His scenic style and the mysterious mood he brings to his photography make Gregory Crewdson stand out as one of the most important figures in contemporary visual art.

Exhibition View, photo credit Tatì Space

The exhibition “Eveningside” presents works from three series created between 2012 and 2022. The title of the exhibition is taken from the final series of the trilogy that begins with Cathedral of Pines and Eclipse of the Moths.

 In his cinematic, large-scale images he explores the complexities of suburban life, often with an eerie or surreal quality. His work draws heavy inspiration from film, particularly the themes of mystery, alienation, and the uncanny. The settings might look familiar—empty suburban streets, quiet homes, or lonely woods—but there’s always something slightly off, like a sense of dread simmering just beneath the surface.

 At the heart of Crewdson’s philosophy is the idea of capturing the complexities of human existence. His work explores themes like isolation, alienation, and the fragility of the American dream. By creating hyper-real scenes that straddle the line between reality and fiction, he invites viewers to question what’s real and what’s imagined.

 Some of Crewdson’s most famous bodies of work include Twilight (1998-2002) and Beneath the Roses (2003-2008), both of which feature elaborate suburban settings with elements of surrealism and mystery.

What I like about Crewdson's work is the universality of his photography. Although the scenes are set in America, they could be anywhere, as he chooses environments and props that have no time and place. The suburbs and almost empty cities could be the small towns of Albania impoverished by the closure of large industries. The empty suburbs could be the periphery of our cities where there is a kind of apathy and disturbing emptiness. Without a doubt, Gregory Crewdson is one of the most inspiring photographers with the artistic images he creates and the social and psychological themes he addresses.

Key Themes in Crewdson's Work:

Suburban Uncertainty: Crewdson often explores the darkness lurking beneath the surface of idyllic suburban life. His photos capture moments that feel like something is about to happen, like a threshold is being crossed into the unknown.

 Cinematic Influences: The use of lighting, set design, and staging in Crewdson's photographs is reminiscent of film scenes. His work evokes a cinematic narrative, making the viewer feel as though they are entering the middle of a story, with the plot left to the imagination.

Isolation and Alienation: Whether his subjects are alone or in the company of others, there is often an underlying sense of disconnection in Crewdson's images. His characters seem removed from their surroundings, creating a feeling of isolation or emotional alienation.

The Supernatural and the Uncanny: While his work is rooted in the realism of everyday life, there is always an element of the surreal. The surreal touches in Crewdson's work push his photographs into the realm of the uncanny, where the familiar becomes unsettling.

Gregory Crewdson “Jim’s House of Shoes” (2021-2022)

Digital Pigment Print, image size 34,5 × 46 in

Gregory Crewdson's meticulous attention to detail and ability to capture intense emotional moments set his work apart, making him a master of modern photography that explores the tension between reality and the mysterious.

Exhibition View, photo credit Tatì Space