LocationSofia, Bulgaria
Member SinceFebruary 27, 2019
Alex Manchev
Alex Manchev is a photographer based in Sofia, Bulgaria. He creates images that capture the raw characteristics of women in the nude from the perspective of an unnoticed observer.
Manchev’s photographs are studies of the female form, exposures of their private space, which allows her to reveal her unrestrained character with no limitations. As a photographer, he is not interested in portraying the female body as just a visually appealing subject. But, rather hopes to empower them and depict them as independent and multi-voiced individuals. To him, nudity allows a true uninhibited form for expression. His images take inspiration from the work of his favorite photographer, Peter Lindbergh. Additionally, paintings, art, movies, architecture, among other things influence his creative process.
In 2016, he created his first images in the nude art genre. However, prior to working with nude models, he worked the portrait and fashion photography industry. Currently, he blends both genres highlighting the authenticity of the nude form and the female origin. Through his images, he strives to show women in the most natural way possible without being superfluous—show a woman that can do what she wants free of judgment.
Inspired by the opportunity of sharing the way he sees his model, Alex Manchev places women on a pedestal and showcases them as a piece of art. In addition, he uses nudity as an outlet to reveal the beauty found in the female form. As well, as the character and spirituality of women. Through his photography, he seeks to elevate his subjects despite their naked state and present them as more than just a sexualized object. Furthermore, he focuses on the model’s role in society, cultural significance, and their unique attributes of strength and sensuality. Additionally, he favors shooting models in their stronghold and isolating their presence from the contemporary social norm and stereotypes.
Alex Manchev places a lot of importance in the relationship he develops with his models. It is a priority to develop trust before and during a photography session. Consequently, he works in stages to get rid of any initial discomfort and to ensure his models are emotionally prepared for a nude shooting. First, he shoots his models lightly dressed, then proceeds to shoot them in lingerie or transparent fabrics, then finally without any clothing.
His creative process includes capturing the spontaneity and the tenderness of the nude form with his lens. Each frame highlights the ability and freedom women have in showcasing their true self. Manchev endeavors to create a natural warmth through his images, characteristics he believes are only achievable through the female form. In addition, he believes that there is a unique energy that comes from being unaware of being seen. The energy created by a model being themselves. When a model can express their free spirit and will by not conforming to the restrictions and limitations of clothing.
Black and white photography provides Alex Manchev with the perfect medium that enhances the character and contrast of a photograph. With color absent, the viewer is not distracted from the main subject and theme, the female nude. In addition, the viewer can sense the model’s emotions and experience the picture’s atmosphere as a memory. Through a black and white palette, Manchev adds a sense of nostalgia and melancholy to his images. Furthermore, it allows for his love of analogous techniques to come through.
Manchev’s accomplishments include displaying in exhibitions throughout Europe, primarily in Bulgaria and Italy. In addition, he received an M.A. in photography from the National Academy of Arts. Some of his professional goals include traveling the world while promoting his work, #TheFreedomProject. Furthermore, he hopes to have his photography and name remembered in the canon of nude art.
Alex Manchev continues to develop his style that will make his images instantly recognizable among a crowd.
Manchev’s photographs are studies of the female form, exposures of their private space, which allows her to reveal her unrestrained character with no limitations. As a photographer, he is not interested in portraying the female body as just a visually appealing subject. But, rather hopes to empower them and depict them as independent and multi-voiced individuals. To him, nudity allows a true uninhibited form for expression. His images take inspiration from the work of his favorite photographer, Peter Lindbergh. Additionally, paintings, art, movies, architecture, among other things influence his creative process.
In 2016, he created his first images in the nude art genre. However, prior to working with nude models, he worked the portrait and fashion photography industry. Currently, he blends both genres highlighting the authenticity of the nude form and the female origin. Through his images, he strives to show women in the most natural way possible without being superfluous—show a woman that can do what she wants free of judgment.
Inspired by the opportunity of sharing the way he sees his model, Alex Manchev places women on a pedestal and showcases them as a piece of art. In addition, he uses nudity as an outlet to reveal the beauty found in the female form. As well, as the character and spirituality of women. Through his photography, he seeks to elevate his subjects despite their naked state and present them as more than just a sexualized object. Furthermore, he focuses on the model’s role in society, cultural significance, and their unique attributes of strength and sensuality. Additionally, he favors shooting models in their stronghold and isolating their presence from the contemporary social norm and stereotypes.
Alex Manchev places a lot of importance in the relationship he develops with his models. It is a priority to develop trust before and during a photography session. Consequently, he works in stages to get rid of any initial discomfort and to ensure his models are emotionally prepared for a nude shooting. First, he shoots his models lightly dressed, then proceeds to shoot them in lingerie or transparent fabrics, then finally without any clothing.
His creative process includes capturing the spontaneity and the tenderness of the nude form with his lens. Each frame highlights the ability and freedom women have in showcasing their true self. Manchev endeavors to create a natural warmth through his images, characteristics he believes are only achievable through the female form. In addition, he believes that there is a unique energy that comes from being unaware of being seen. The energy created by a model being themselves. When a model can express their free spirit and will by not conforming to the restrictions and limitations of clothing.
Black and white photography provides Alex Manchev with the perfect medium that enhances the character and contrast of a photograph. With color absent, the viewer is not distracted from the main subject and theme, the female nude. In addition, the viewer can sense the model’s emotions and experience the picture’s atmosphere as a memory. Through a black and white palette, Manchev adds a sense of nostalgia and melancholy to his images. Furthermore, it allows for his love of analogous techniques to come through.
Manchev’s accomplishments include displaying in exhibitions throughout Europe, primarily in Bulgaria and Italy. In addition, he received an M.A. in photography from the National Academy of Arts. Some of his professional goals include traveling the world while promoting his work, #TheFreedomProject. Furthermore, he hopes to have his photography and name remembered in the canon of nude art.
Alex Manchev continues to develop his style that will make his images instantly recognizable among a crowd.
2019 - THIS IS LUST, Art Provocateur Gallery, Toronto/Canada
2018 - La sensualità femminile, Gallery Luce, Rome/Italy
2017 - 30.30.30, San Stefano Gallery, Sofia/Bulgaria
2018 - La sensualità femminile, Gallery Luce, Rome/Italy
2017 - 30.30.30, San Stefano Gallery, Sofia/Bulgaria
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