Juan Brenner’s ‘Genesis’ Captures Youth Culture In the Guatemalan Highlands

As a seasoned gamer with a penchant for immersive storytelling and visual aesthetics, I find myself captivated by Juan Brenner’s upcoming masterpiece, Genesis. Having spent years navigating the vibrant, ever-changing landscapes of digital worlds, I can appreciate the parallels between Brenner’s journey through Guatemala City and my own virtual adventures.

Following a ten-year stint as a fashion photographer in New York City, Juan Brenner decided to go back to Guatemala City, his hometown. Upon returning, he was deeply touched by the generation of Guatemalans who were ushering in a fresh era, blending traditional aesthetics and ways of life into a new dawn. For his forthcoming book, published by Guest Editions, Brenner captures the vibrant rebirth of youth culture in the Western Highlands through a collection of vivid and heartfelt images.

Over the span of approximately 360 pages, the book titled “Genesis” encapsulates more than five years of meticulous work. As Brenner mentions, “As I delved deeper into Genesis, it shifted from being a personal project to a collection documenting a specific moment in history.” The Highlands, teeming with sensory stimuli, are so immersive that one can’t fully grasp everything at once when actually present there. In the midst of significant transformation, the artist delves into aspects such as land, recreation, sorrow, and community within the Highlands, providing a clear perspective on the region’s intricate history and current state.

The book includes essays by filmmaker and poet Julio Serrano, as well as dialogues between Brenner and writer Gem Fletcher, along with photographs. Genesis can be pre-ordered online through the Guest Editions website for approximately $51 USD (£38.25 GBP). A launch event and signing will take place at Photobook Cafe in London on November 14, 2024.

2024-09-23 23:55

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