In an era when the definition of masculinity is in flux and deeply contested, “Dudes” is a street portrait series shot all across San Francisco, and beyond, that explores and honors the wide range of ways manhood is embodied today. Photographed in public spaces each picture offers a candid view of how a unique individual expresses his own version of being a man.
Collectively these images neither reinforce stereotypes nor argue for reinvention. Instead they invite viewers to contemplate the breadth and complexities of contemporary masculinity. “Dudes” does not ask what a man should be, it invites viewers to consider what a man can choose to be.
A book of these photographs is in development, and many of them are on view as part of the current Ingleside Gallery art show “City Light / City Lives” at Ballast Coffee in West Portal through the end of May.
