Confessionals: Volker Schrank

In his photographs, Volker Schrank removes confessionals out from the sacred space from which they originate. Set against monochrome backgrounds in bold colours reminiscent of medieval stained glass windows, they appear at once familiar and distant. But a confessional-however abstract and detached its depiction-is not merely a piece of furniture, but a place deeply charged with emotion. In Schrank's pictures, confessionals become ethereal objects, imbued with stories and experiences that go far beyond their function as the venue for admissions and absolution. The confessionals from around the world photographed by Volker Schrank are eloquent in their silence. What those who voluntarily sought them out or were compelled to do so said, confessed, or experienced within them remains their secret. Text in English and German. AUTHOR: Volker Schrank, born in 1965, lives and works in Stuttgart. In addition to his artistic work, he teaches at various universities. Volker Schrank studied photography in Kassel, Dortmund and Limerick, Ireland, from 1989 to 1997. In 2002, he was the initiator and co-founder of the Stuttgart Photo Summer. In his photographic series, Schrank explores themes that are rooted in collective thinking, such as rituals, myths or even groups that represent certain characteristics. He forcefully questions the established canon of our memory, pointing out uncertainties or gaps and revealing what mass media, prejudices or hero worship can obscure. SELLING POiNTS: . Featuring confessionals from around the world, the book is a quiet exploration of cultural and spiritual diversity . A unique visual experience: Confessionals are transformed into bold, minimalist artworks 49 colour illustrations