A sequence of silver prints by Duane Michals, entitled Paradise Regained
The sequence tells a narrative story of a regression of evolution, transitioning from an artificial office environment to a natural area full of plants and nothing man made.
The subjects becoming less clothed throughout as the environment changes reminds the viewer that humans are part of the earth and as susceptible to changes as everything else on the planet.
The sequence contains biblical connotations, thanks to the Adam and Eve style figures. As it regresses to the first image the sequence could be seen as stripping back the effects of religion.
The figures are shot from the viewer’s eye line, making it easy to relate to them as it puts us in the same position as them.
The images challenge the dominant ideology of male superiority, with the woman standing tall behind the man.
Shot in black and white to further emphasis the stripping back of technology.
The title, Paradise Regained suggests that Michals has disdain for the modern way of life and sees the old way as preferable.
laurenharrisphotography 