Light Warriors [Hardcover]

Joyce Tenneson (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: November 15, 2000

A series of dramatic, up-close portraits of women, all taken with Polaroid's remarkable 20 x 24-inch camera. These striking images are reminiscent of Tenneson's earlier work (Transformations and Illuminations) in their haunting, dreamlike qualities. However, these striking portraits of the female figure, often partially nude, draped in fabric, with unusual headdresses or objects in their arms, illuminated by eerie light, are unforgettable and a bold departure from her earlier work. A must for Tenneson's loyal fans -- the photographic, feminist, and spiritual market -- and also for a more general audience, capitalizing on her increasing visibility in the fashion field.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Joyce Tenneson has achieved high distinction in both the fine art and commercial photography fields. Her personal work has been exhibited throughout the world in over 100 exhibitions and is included in many museum collections. She is the author of Transformations, (hc, 1993) and (pb, 1994), and Illuminations (hc, 1997). Her work appears regularly in such magazines as Vogue, Time, and Esquire.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 112 pages
• Publisher: Bulfinch; Lst Ed edition (November 15, 2000)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0821226983
• ISBN-13: 978-0821226988
• Product Dimensions: 9.5 x 0.8 x 12.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.4 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (8 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,280,217 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

30 of 31 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Spiritual and Psychological Portraits of Women, April 14, 2001

By 

Donald Mitchell "Jesus Loves You!" (Thanks for Providing My Reviews over 110,000 Helpful Votes Globally) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Light Warriors (Hardcover)

As the dust jacket suggests, the images in this book would earn an "R" rating if they were part of a motion picture. They contain female nudity done in an artistic, highly refined, respectful manner.

These images are most unusual for portraits, and are very successful. All of the models are friends of Ms. Tenneson, and are not posed by her. Instead, she is trying to create a "visual diary . . . to probe emotions and inner realities that are . . . invisible . . . ." To do this, "I asked them what was most important in their lives." The book contains quotes of what the subjects said, as well as the finished image. To be a spiritual warrior is "to offer oneself to the world authentically, to flex the courage muscles, to share what it means to be human." She is open to the whole person, for "what fascinates me is life's complexities, the darkness as well as the light."

Each portrait is reproduced in warm browns. The foundation of the portrait is a nude image of the model or models (usually mother and child or twins). Then a double exposure is created to superimpose other elements of the subject's self vision. Portions of these images will be light, and will exist as overexposed sections that seem like the sun bursting from the page. The imagery is quite strong, and you will probably find yourself having an emotional reaction to it. That's definitely part of the appeal. You will also feel like you know a lot about each model.

Here are my favorites among these wonderful images: Nina Z., Russia; Sheryl and Sef, United States; Rebekka, Finland; Nina B., Germany; Laura and Isaac, United States; Yael, Israel; Marie-Claude, Canada; Jasmin, Australia; Suri, United States; Marisa, United States; Lindsay and Amanda, United States; Jessie, United States; Margarita, Russia; and Sun, United States.

How does she see her role as the photographer? "I just provide a safe place for them to be open . . . ." Who are these women? "They are pilgrims . . . ."

After you enjoy these images, I suggest that you also ask people what is most important in their lives. Even without taking a photograph, you can come much closer and create important bands of connection. What else can you ask that will be revealing and welcome?

By being a respectful seeker, you too can be a spiritual pilgrim. At the end of your journey, you may also become a light warrior.

16 of 17 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Breathtaking photos, May 15, 2002

By 

Nanci "Book Dragon" (Tri-Cities, WA USA) - See all my reviews

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This review is from: Light Warriors (Hardcover)

I saw a few of Joyce Tenneson's photos in this month's Sun Magazine. The photo of the mother and daughter, whose eyes mirror one another, and are startlingly spiritual, captivated. The other photographs published were equally excellent in composition and light. They took my breath away, quite literally, the mark of high art. I am putting this high on my list of books I must own.

21 of 24 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars An exemplary photobook, May 18, 2001

By 

Robie Kulokivi (Joensuu, Finland) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Light Warriors (Hardcover)

This book "Light Warriors" by photographer Joyce Tenneson is a good example of what a well made photobook can be. It is something I'd like to achieve, in size and format when I eventually have my first book published.

It is printed and bound in Milan, Italy by Amilcare Pizzi. They have done a very good job in binding this hardcover book. It has 112 pages and is of a suitable size 235 x 310 mm. Most of the photos are on the right face of an opening.

All the prints are monochrome and have a brown tone to them. All models are female and show sensual nudity and they pose standing. Personally I like most of the tranquil, silent and warm pictures. I can also see an emphasis on the eyes of the models.

I'm happy to see a Finnish model on page 15 (Rebecca), someone I have not yet had the privilege to photograph. The most stunning images are page 11 (Nina Z., Russia) page 31 (Larissa D., Slovenia)and page 63 (Nadya, Russia).

I can highly recommend this book, and the price is well balanced. It has at least found a place in my library.