Book Synopsis

Discover Venice anew through Kenna's signature long-exposure photography

British photographer Michael Kenna's (born 1953) practice is characterized by long exposure times of up to several hours. This technique allows him to capture the unseen details hidden between the serene canals and stately brick houses that constitute the Venetian landscape. His lens captures a wide array of subjects: mist-shrouded chapels and attics, falling stars above bell towers, palace arches, clotheslines, gondola prows, bridges, garden statues and twisted poles emerging from a black lagoon. Kenna's photographs skillfully play with light, shadow and reflection to show the poetic intensity of Venice. This photobook serves as a new chapter in Kenna's illustrious career. It stands as a testament to his unparalleled ability to capture the timeless allure of the Floating City, offering viewers a unique and immersive experience through the lens of an exacting master.

Review Quotes

The sinking city's lugubrious architecture and misty days lend themselves perfectly to Kenna's signature long-exposure images.--Julia Buckley "CNN"

In Kenna's 'Venice. Memories and Traces' (Skira) he captures the title's subjects in black-and-white prints and long exposures. The people are gone, but one doesn't miss them: Buildings, perpetually wet pathways and even quaintly leaning docking poles have character enough.--Peter Saenger "The Wall Street Journal"