Libert & Company

"Libert & Company” is a photographic study of a financially and
socially privileged New England family that I know well—it is my own.
In the past I found myself hesitant to share photographs that evidence
the “privileged” background that I grew up in, especially given the
current state of the economy. This current body of work addresses my
ambivalent attitude towards this aspect of my life. I often experience
various emotions such as pride, embarrassment, guilt, and relief. With
that in mind, I photograph familial characters of this
wealthy circle (and, in particular, my parents) in a way that captures
my projected insecurity.

The result is a series of images where discomfort and awkwardness are
present. Sometimes this unease is evident in the subjects’ ambiguous
facial expressions and gestures in relation to each other and their
environment. In other situations, the characters display an obvious
self-awareness and, at times, sense of entitlement. Much emphasis is
placed on aesthetics, whether it be one’s own personal appearance or
with external surroundings, such as home decorating. There exists a
desire to not only fit in, but to impress and fulfill the high
expectations set by prior generations. As the photographer and
occasional subject of these images, I too embody these
characteristics.

I ultimately consider this body of work to be both a self-portrait and
critical view of my life, one that intends to both please and disgust
the audience.