Peter Zelewski is a London based portrait and documentary photographer. Born in Detroit, USA he moved to London in the 1980s and studied at the London College of Communication (LCC). Through his fascination of people and love of the city, he was drawn to the streets of London to take photographs of its citizens which has resulted in two award-winning projects ’People of Soho’ and ‘Beautiful Strangers’. His work has been featured in The Guardian, The Huffington Post, The Evening Standard to name only a few. In 2015 he was awarded third prize in the prestigious Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize at the National Portrait Gallery in London. His first book 'People of London', published by Hoxton Mini Press is out now.
The first photo postcard is taken from Peter's series People of London. The series is a beautiful homage to London and it's inhabitants. The portraits are absolutely beautiful and it is an honour to have one of them featured at our exhibition in October. On the series he writes: 'Motivated by my love of London and its people, I spent over five years taking photographs of strangers throughout the city. This collection of 100 portraits, which includes everyone from students to buskers and retirees to lawyers, is accompanied by intimate quotes and is a celebration of the diversity and spirit of one of the world’s most dynamic cities. 'People of London' is available in standard format and collectors editions from Amazon, Foyles, Waterstones, Tate Modern, Magma or directly from Hoxton Mini Press.'
Next to Jean's portrait in the book it reads 'I no longer live in London but I'll always consider myself a Londoner at heart. London never leaves you. I was born in Leytonstone and my father was a boxer, fought many fights in Bethnal Green and Kentish Town. I like to think there is a lot of him in me, that London spirit, that's London pride talking!'
Jean
People of London, Peter Zelewski
His second piece is taken from his series entitled Alike But Not Alike. The series highlights society’s universal fascination with identical twins and the bonds between them. Zelewski explains: "The photographs were all taken in central London in an urban setting against neutral backdrops which was intended to give little away as to the social status or backgrounds of the twins. Although dressed similar in all the photographs the subtle obvious differences can be seen in their expressions and stance proving that no sets twins are truly identical."
Chloe and Leah
Alike But Not Alike, Peter Zelewski
Peter has developed a clean urban aesthetic with a sensitive heart at the core of every piece. Similar to the 'Human's of New York' photographs, Peter's works are not only an ode to the people who make up our societies, but indirectly to those in our own lives. We recognise the characters and feel their stories, so whilst these are portraits of subjects, they have a universal quality.
We are very pleased to have Peter on board as well as many other huge talents. If you would like to participate send us your work! But hurry, under a week if left of our open call. Go to http://bit.ly/2r0MUE4.
