'Closer' collection was installed Nov 2017 through March 2018.
Artist statement from Dinesh Boaz on 'Closer':
I have sought to explore what it means to live in the chaos of city life and how getting ‘Closer’ to the urban oasis has helped me in my own outlook on why I can’t get away from being in the city. Oasis is typically defined as a pleasant or peaceful area in the midst of a difficult, or hectic place or situation. The oasis in the ‘Closer’ series is a place that takes haven from the outside world. I look to bring out the mundane and subtle nuances of life outside the boundaries of each setting- life outside that shows the ugly roads and traffic, the concrete, the construction and the crowds - contrasting with the serenity of water, the camaraderie of the courts and team work of people in physical movement together. The lines of separation from the outside world are so strong that the viewer is not only drawn to the oasis, but also to the stark unknown of what lies beyond its realm.
I look to show in my images the escapism from life and from a sense of time. Each photo represents an otherworldly connection of how people find each other; we strive to seek out calm in the chaos of the urban metropolis and we look to slow down the pace of urban life. The works glow not just from rich colors and aerial views, but each photo seeks to redefine the humanity of socialization. In the midst of the mass, crowds and noise, I think the true charm is to want to find a way to not just be alone, but to reconnect with others and recharge our batteries. In some ways, as in the shots LA coastline, socialization appears as a need for survival -the water itself being the oppressor and connector of people, in such reconnecting appears as in friendly competition or in a recreational sport
I ask the viewer to truly experience ‘Closer’ by getting into the lives of each subject in the image in the series. I have come to the realization now it is ok to feel the tension of living life in an urban setting - for when one can find the counter of dramatic calm of the ‘Urban oasis’ truly great ideas great ideas, change, and inspiration can happen for you.
For more information please contact : info@dineshboaz.com. Check out the press from the show and also read more about the exhibit here.
