It will come as no surprise to readers that Polina Washington’s (b. 1991) background is in cinematography. Light and colour are crucial to her body of work. In the following pages, complete stories are communicated through a singular sunbeam, or door left ajar. Viewers may be reminded of Roger Deakins (Blade Runner 2049, Sicario), known for his command of blues and oranges, or the room-sized light and space installations of James Turrell. These pictures are delicate and carefully crafted, delivered with precision and attention to detail. Some characters shade their eyes from the glare of an artificial sun or open window, whilst others lie back, bathing in warm shafts of red, white and yellow. Washington was born in the small city of Veliky Novgorod, Russia, and later studied to be a Director of Photography (DoP) in St. Petersburg. Now, she shares her skills with others, teaching workshops and pushing students to work with, rather than against, their fears.
Image credits:
1. Polina Washington, from Till The Light Separates Us (2023).
2. Polina Washington, from It’s Not About Win or Lose (2022).
3. Polina Washington, from Till The Light Separates Us (2023).
4. Polina Washington, from Tainted Love (2023).
5. Polina Washington, from The Past Is Something You Could See (2020).
6. Polina Washington, from Silent Mode (2023).
7. Polina Washington, from Till The Light Separates Us (2023).
8. Polina Washington, from Don’t Think About Me (2021).
9. Polina Washington, from Till The Light Separates Us (2023).
