Behind the Lens: Portraits for 2nd Nature by Pieris Architects
I had the privilege of capturing portraits that accompanied the publication of 2nd Nature, the latest exhibition by Pieris Architects in Athens. This exhibition, dedicated to the architectural works of the Pieris team, explored the theme of nature’s integration into urban spaces. While the portraits themselves were not part of the exhibition, they played a crucial role in bringing the team’s vision to life through the accompanying publications.
The vision for the portraits was to blend elements of the Pieris Architects’ building designs, their team, and nature. This approach was inspired by the exhibition's theme, which explores the relationship between architecture and the natural world. The portraits aimed to visually embody this synergy, combining the precision and formality of architecture with the organic beauty of the natural surroundings. The idea was to create a connection between the people who shape these spaces, the buildings themselves, and the nature that often plays a supporting role in their designs. The photoshoot took place at the Athens Conservatoire, an architectural gem in the heart of the city. The space provided a striking backdrop, with its contemporary design and sleek lines. The contrast between the building's bold architectural features and the surrounding greenery made it the perfect setting for a shoot that sought to combine the built environment with natural elements.
Combining Three Elements
One of the key challenges during the Pieris portrait photoshoot in Athens was combining three distinct elements: the building of the Athens Conservatoire, elements of nature, and a group of three people. Each of these components needed to be integrated in a way that felt harmonious and visually striking. The challenge lay in positioning the team of architects in a way that allowed the building and the natural surroundings to play a supporting yet prominent role in the frame. We had to carefully balance the architecture’s strong presence with the softer, more fluid elements of nature, while also making sure the team was at the forefront of the portrait.
Complementing the Exhibition’s Theme
The portraits complement the 2nd Nature exhibition by visually emphasizing the connection between architecture and nature. The exhibition itself focuses on how Pieris Architects’ designs harmonize with their surroundings, drawing from natural forms and principles. The portraits reflect this ethos by weaving together the human element, the architectural space, and the organic influence of nature. Each photograph tells a story of collaboration—how the architects, the buildings, and the environment work together to create a more thoughtful, sustainable urban experience.
Man of Stone
Man of Stone is a photographic project - tribute to humanity's enduring relationship with nature, spanning from prehistoric times to the present day. This connection, initially driven by the need for survival, evolved through imagination and creativity. Stone and wood served as the primary materials for crafting tools, building shelters, and creating structures that supported sustainable living for thousands of years.
In modern times, reconnecting with nature is equally vital—not just for physical survival but for mental and spiritual well-being. By embracing this awareness, individuals can rediscover the forms and textures of nature, sparking imagination and enhancing their perception of the world. When imagination leads to action, life can transform through new choices and sustainable ways of living.
The Artists
The photographs represent a creative dialogue between photographer Dimitris Vlaikos and sculptor Panayiotis Marinis. Marinis, a master craftsman and the last traditional sculptor of his kind, carves ancient tools as objects of art. Using only natural materials sourced near his home, he applies the same methods and techniques employed by his ancestors 30,000 years ago. His work is a living testament to history, bridging the past and present.
In addition to still-life photographs of Marinis's tools, the collaboration took Vlaikos and Marinis to the hills of their shared homeland, Aegina Island. There, they explored and documented the enduring stone footprints left by their ancestors—a profound connection between history and the land.
