First impression of Des Oiseaux by Kyunghee Lee (2023)

First impression 

Large format hardback in new condition

English edition

Published by Atelier EXB

About

For the fourteenth title in the collection, South Korean photographer Kyunghee Lee takes us into the winter forests of the far south of her country, to meet the crows. At nightfall, motionless, waiting for the birds during their migration from Siberia, the photographer hides among the trees, her tripod protected from the great cold that reigns at this time of year. Flocks of crows emerge from the distance, as if orchestrated by an invisible choreographer. The air is filled with their powerful cries, excluding any other sound from the forest. The photographer knows that she has little time, she carefully presses the shutter button, concentrated, mastering the slightest noise. Suddenly there is complete silence, the darkness is total and the cold air becomes almost compact. The forest offers birds its hospitality.

In a powerful black and white with shades of velvety gray, Kyunghee Lee immerses us in the mysterious world of these birds that populate our myths and legends. Standing out in powerful choreographies on milky skies or on immaculate snow, far from any human presence, the crows of Kyunghee Lee fascinate by the grace of their presence.