Setanta Books has released "Collecting Hands," a new photography collection by artist Monaris that explores the intimate world of human hands and the objects they hold. The publication features an extract from acclaimed photographer Dave Krugman, who provides critical commentary on Monaris's distinctive visual approach.
In his accompanying text, Krugman describes how Monaris's photographic vision reveals entire worlds within carefully framed compositions. "Through the gaze of photographer Monaris, worlds emerge from these carefully reframed frames," Krugman writes. He details the mysterious quality of the subjects: "A small box wrapped in silver paper, tied with string. What secret does it contain? An extinguished cigar, a beaded keychain with keys to an unknown door, a finely striped bag containing everything the mind can imagine."
Krugman's commentary continues to explore the symbolic nature of the objects captured in Monaris's lens. "An upside-down cane to support an invisible wound. A dented black umbrella—will the weather stay beautiful today? A black leather shoe, polished and faithful in its steps, its contours marked by age," he observes. The critic emphasizes Monaris's mastery in capturing these fleeting moments and her exceptional ability to sequence them into a cohesive narrative.
The publication highlights humanity's instinctual drive to recognize and collect patterns, with Krugman noting, "Another ancestral instinct that calls to us all deeply and our impulse to recognize and collect patterns. And what a collection! Each image here is a thread in a larger tapestry, parts of a whole, and with each repetition, the story becomes clearer—our hands carry our humanity."
"Collecting Hands" is presented as a hardcover book measuring 245 × 173 mm with 104 pages. The publication includes several special features: an 8-page booklet insert, an 8-page gatefold, two sheets of tracing paper, and two yellow cut cardboard dividers. The collection showcases 95 images that form the core of Monaris's artistic vision.
This release represents a special edition with limited availability. Each print run is limited to 20 numbered and stamped copies, with each copy personally signed and numbered by Monaris on the reverse side. The photographs are printed on high-quality Hahnemühle Pearl paper in a 24 × 16 cm (9 × 6 inch) format, featuring a distinctive 1 cm (0.4 inch) white border that frames each image. The publication is available through Setanta Books' official website at www.setantabooks.com.
