In the bustling cultural landscape of Moscow, the work of French photographer David Glorian is currently captivating audiences. Known for his deeply evocative and entirely unedited images, Glorian has carved a niche for himself among musicians and dancers who admire his ability to capture raw emotion without digital embellishment. But Glorian`s connection to Russia runs deeper than mere artistic appreciation; it’s a story woven with fate, cultural discovery, and a compelling cross-border romance.
The Art of Authentic Light: An “Old School” Philosophy
Glorian’s photographic journey began in the tactile world of film cameras during the 1990s at the Institute of Arts in Lille. Here, under the mentorship of esteemed photojournalist Karl Cordonnier, he honed a philosophy that eschews the modern trend of extensive digital post-processing. “I am a representative of the old school,” Glorian states, emphasizing his belief in capturing the perfect shot in a single attempt, much like working with precious film. This approach, he argues, differentiates a true professional from those who rely on editing software to salvage imperfect frames.
His work intentionally bypasses the fleeting nature of social media imagery, aiming instead for photographs that resonate as timeless works of art. Glorian`s signature techniques include masterful manipulation of reflections—be it in storefront windows, mirrors, or even simple puddles—to reveal unexpected facets of his subjects. He also skillfully plays with shadows, crafting compositions that offer viewers a deeper, more introspective glimpse into the human soul. For Glorian, the camera isn`t merely a tool for reproduction; it’s a brush for painting with light and emotion.
“The presence of a camera does not make one a photographer… A photographer must earn trust, respect their subject, and aim for a beautiful image. A paparazzi, however, seeks sensation; their criteria for a `good` shot are entirely different.”
A Daring Romance Across Continents
While his artistry found a natural home in Russia, Glorian’s initial foray into the country was driven by a powerful personal motivation: love. He met his wife, Yulia, through a language exchange application, and a profound connection blossomed. Their budding romance, however, coincided with the early days of the global pandemic, making international travel a complex endeavor. Yet, Glorian, with a touch of Gallic determination, found an unconventional solution.
During the European Football Championship, a unique loophole allowed entry into Russia without a visa for those with a Fan ID. So, with a ticket to a match in St. Petersburg – the city where Yulia resided – Glorian embarked on his adventure. One can almost picture the romantic irony: a devoted artist, perhaps not entirely a football fanatic, navigating bureaucratic hurdles, all for the sake of love.
This personal connection to Russia was, in a way, predestined. Glorian recalls his father`s purchase of a Soviet-made Lada in the late 1970s, a cherished family anecdote that hinted at an enduring, if subtle, affinity for the vast Eastern nation. This nostalgia is so potent that Glorian recently acquired a “Zhiguli” T-shirt, a tangible link to a bygone era.
Russia Through a Sincere Lens
Glorian`s experience of Russia stands in stark contrast to the often-distorted narratives prevalent in some Western media. His family, like many, harbored preconceived notions of empty shelves and “wild people.” Yet, his direct encounters painted a very different picture. He speaks of Russians as “very friendly,” “always trying to help,” and “absolutely sincere.”
He recounts a particularly heartwarming train journey from Moscow to St. Petersburg, where fellow passengers, despite a language barrier, went out of their way to assist and connect with him. Another journey, from Moscow to Ufa in an older, Soviet-era carriage, delighted him like a child. The train chief, upon learning she had a European passenger, made a special effort to ensure his comfort, embodying the hospitality Glorian has come to appreciate. On the culinary front, while not strictly Russian, his affection for Plov is notable – a dish he even attempted to recreate for his French family, who, perhaps less accustomed to its richness, found it “fatty.”
Capturing Russian Artistry: The Tale of a Stolen Portrait
Among his most cherished subjects are Russian artists, particularly musicians and dancers. Glorian actively seeks out “talented” individuals over those who are merely “mass-marketed.” His portfolio boasts portraits of esteemed figures such as singer Mariam Merabova, double bassist Vladimir Volkov, and jazz legend Alexey Kozlov, along with soloists from the Bolshoi Theatre.
A humorous anecdote perfectly illustrates the power of his portraits. After one of his Moscow exhibitions, Glorian gifted Mariam Merabova a striking portrait printed on canvas. A few weeks later, Merabova humorously informed him that the renowned Russian artist Nikas Safronov had “stolen” the piece, so captivated was he by it, forcing Glorian to prepare another for Mariam. This story, in itself, speaks volumes about the impact of his work.
Photographing concerts, Glorian explains, is an act of improvisation, relying on intuition and a deep “feeling” for the moment. The key, he insists, is the sincerity of the subject. Without genuine emotion, a technically perfect shot remains lifeless, unable to hold the viewer`s gaze.
A Photo Book for Russia`s Hidden Beauty
Looking ahead, David Glorian harbors an ambitious dream: to create a comprehensive photo book dedicated to the beauty of Russia. This project aims to showcase “another side” of the country, revealing its “amazing underside” and “color” through his unique photographic lens. It would be a testament to the myriad experiences that have shaped his perspective and deepened his connection to this vast and multifaceted land.
Ultimately, Glorian`s journey and his art are inextricably linked to his wife, Yulia. As he quietly confided when she momentarily stepped away: “Everything I do is for her, for her, and thanks to my wife.” It is a declaration that encapsulates the profound inspiration she brings to his life and work, turning his cross-cultural adventures into a deeply personal and artistic odyssey.
