Michel Rawicki
Born in 1950, Michel Rawicki first discovered photography in 1968, and the year after, he produced his first features in Paris. These were then soon to be followed by his studio years, from 1973 to 1988, devoted to still life, decoration and portraits.
In 1992, at the age of 43, he made his first expedition to the Arcticand his discovery of the poles and polar bear that transformed his photographic journey once and for all. Michel has dedicated himself to documenting
Rawicki’s photographs, which were imbued with an aesthetic and graphic approach, naturally started to take on an ethical and contemplative dimension, which gradually changed his view and his approach to photographing this sensitive environment.
An in‐depth look at a region of the planet that is at the heart of climate change.
Against a backdrop of climatic upheavals, this photographer bears witness to a world that is changing, offering us a positive and honest look at this sensitive and fragile white universe that echoes current environmental concerns. Though these images, his intent is not intended to condemn or stigmatise a situation but to provide a passionate and positive look.
“Share my love of the poles, raise awareness as to the fact that the conservation of this fragile immense space concerns each and every one of us on a daily basis”
A bright and positive message in a 21st century that is not without its tension.
A symbol of strength, survival despite hardship and – more recently – the perils of global warming, the polar bear wears many different faces across the world. Rawicki’s book. Polar Bears: A Life Under Threat is an uncompromising exploration of the animal behind the mythos.
Rawicki’s anthology transports us to the Arctic: the bears’ home territory. His photographs depict playful cubs, hunting mothers and solitary adults on their yearly migration. The bears’ innate curiosity shines through, as they peer through windows and rear up on their hind legs to study the camera. As well as trekking across miles of dazzling snow, they forage in forests and towns – leading to a striking series of photographs that document the relationship beta ween bear, manthe and environment.
BOOKS:
Polar Bears: A Life Under Threat
L’appel du froid (The Call of Cold)