* All images used with permission from artist. Please do not distribute without first contacting the artist.
About “Deliver Me” (left):
In America, smokers have become social refugees banished to windy corners, cars, and private homes. I am interested in the idea that the nation has become so disenchanted with smoking that we have tried to legislate smokers out of existence.
Although more than 20 percent of the United States population smokes cigarettes, this large group has been exiled from the public space while indulging. I am interested in the small rebellions and compulsions that propel people to continue smoking in the face of public condemnation.
Addiction, of course, is largely responsible, but I have noticed that there is often a residue of glamour that smokers crave. The image of a 1940s movie star languidly smoking a cigarette signaled sophistication and elegance. The faint echo of that false glamour can be seen in these portraits.
The enjoyment of the act, the often theatrical pause, and the ability to take a break from the work day and think or converse with friends for a few minutes as the cigarette burns down are more meaningful than non-smokers would imagine.
Deliver Me explores a diverse group of Americans united by a dangerous habit.
Next Artist: Laura Bell
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While I like the photo-I have no sympathy for the plight of smokers. What a bad habit and dirty as well. As an artist,I can think of a lot better ways to express myself and for a better cause!! How about the American Cancer Society for starters.
Comment by Tom bytwork — February 7, 2010
While sitting in front of the fireplace last night, my husband commented that the contentment we have while gazing at a controlled fire is probably very ancient. I wonder about the sharing of fire and smoke and how that plays into all of this.
Comment by Sparky — February 7, 2010
I remember as a teen thinking that smoking was sexy. It was literally an ‘in your face’ rebellion. When I was pregnant with my first child I decided to quit. Laura’s photos show the complexity of smoking–the enjoyment of smoking and the desire to be delivered from the habit. We all know what smoking does to us. It’s just so hard to quit. Good luck to those who try.
Comment by Laura — February 7, 2010
Interesting photos. While I applaud the concept behind the photos and believe we should have more ‘think’ art in our lives, as a former smoker, I disagree with the whole ‘smoker attitude. There are plenty of healthy ways to take a break from work or enjoy yourself or be social. We don’t need to kill ourselves in the process.
Comment by Casey Shannon — February 7, 2010
Huh?
I get it but…
Comment by Clifton Bryan — February 7, 2010
The act of smoking , in my opinion, is the humanities last refuge and sense of control over our environment.
Comment by Kris Keiser — February 7, 2010
To all my friends who smoke, the Artist of Today, Laura Noel, has captured the essence, sex appeal, and drama of a lit cigarette in hand. Her photos reach into the being of the witness and stir the emotion of loneliness as the smoker projects their own friendship on the sleek aromatic gestalt prop. The seer of the photos experiences an almost holistic peace when viewing a lit fag in a womanâ??s beau dour with comforter and rocks glass containing a clear beverage. I am not a smoker however this young artist has captured an eerie poetic balance to the otherwise unhealthy addiction. I like Laura Noel’s talent.
Comment by Touched — February 7, 2010
I enjoyed Laura Noel’s social commentary associated with her photograph categories. Works like these help us visualize glimmers of our make up – and that of nitches of society. I am learning that what we don’t know about other folk’s motivation or seeming lack of motivation is a lot. What inspires us? What makes us dream? What makes us continue on the path we are on? And the biggy – what opens the door to change – especially positive change?
Comment by Thomas — February 7, 2010
Very compelling. As a former smoker I miss the social aspects of smoking the most. It is as though I belong with a different social group now. Even after 10 years smoke free there is this feeling. Of course my health, the smell, the health of people around me and the dirtiness are to high of a price to pay. Oh, but I did look cool and glamorous.
Comment by Angela — February 7, 2010
I like the concept of this artwork and agree that the reasons why people continue to smoke is more complex that non smokers can imagine, however, the image would not be so meaningful without the accompanying, explanatory text.
Comment by Anne — February 7, 2010