Welcome to this edition of [book spotlight]. Today, we uncover the layers of 'Infinite Bonheur,' by Brittainy Lauback (published by Fall Line Press). We'd love to read your comments below about these insights and ideas behind the artist's work.

Imagine stumbling upon a book that feels like a spontaneous adventure through the highs and lows of life, where every page turn reveals a new, unexpected moment. That’s exactly what Brittainy Lauback’s “Infinite Bonheur” delivers. This photography book, often described as a “visual romp and emotional roller coaster,” captures the essence of our chaotic existence. It’s as if Lauback is sharing her life story with us, one candid shot at a time.

When asked about the inspiration behind this unique project, Lauback’s response is refreshingly unpretentious: “The key is not to prepare.” She believes in embracing the unexpected, carrying a camera with her at all times—though it might not always be the same one. This spontaneity and gut feeling guide her creative process, leading to a body of work that feels both thrilling and genuine. Her mantra, “Trust your gut and do what thrills you and scares you and don’t overthink it,” speaks volumes about the passion and intuition driving her art.

- Martin

Introduction to Your Work: The "Infinite Bonheur" has been described as a "visual romp and emotional roller coaster." Could you explain the initial spark or experience that led you to create this unique project?

I have been looking for a way to put my work together that highlights, not the individual projects, but my overall sensibility which speaks to the comedy and tragedy of our overall existence. It makes more sense to me to put it all together like we experience it, chaotically and not orderly. So, there is not one moment that this came from but from an accumulation of life’s experiences.  

Photographic Techniques and Style: Your work traverses a broad subject range, captured in diverse methods. How do you decide on your photographic approach for each subject or theme, and how has your style evolved over time?

This is true! This comes from trying to work intuitively instead of analytically. I know I am making good work when I feel the tickle in my gut which is kind of like feeling nervous. I make sure I have a camera on me at all times but it may not be the same one. This approach has evolved as I have learned to trust my process and not allow my inner academic critic to tell me I must have a fully fleshed-out idea before I start.

Navigating Human Emotions: Your book aims to capture the thin line between laughter and tears. How do you prepare yourself and your subjects to explore such intimate and sometimes contrasting emotions?

The key is not to prepare. I try hard to remain open minded and not come into a shoot with pre-conceived notions of what will transpire. I find that this allows me and the subject to discover some connection between us and because the human condition is full of contrasting emotions, this comes out in the work. 

Themes and Inspiration: "Women who own snakes" and "men who want to meet in hotel rooms" are quite specific themes. Can you share more about how these themes emerged and what you discovered through these series?

They emerged in different ways. The women and snake project came about because I kept having dreams of snakes and I was trying to figure out why. I thought it had something to with the biblical portrayal of Eve, or succumbing to temptation but during this period a fellow artist friend gave me a statue of the Minoan Snake Goddess which represented a more positive spin of the snake female relationship which spoke more to women’s power or dominion over nature. I then realized women actually own snakes and I could see which way they saw themselves in this relationship and that would make for an interesting project. Consequentially, I don’t have those dreams anymore.

The men/hotel project took me a bit to figure out why I was doing that, but I think it has something to do with my urge to exert power over men in an intimate space where it is safe and I have control.

Challenges and Surprises: During the creation of "Infinite Bonheur," what were some of the most unexpected challenges or surprises you encountered, either creatively or logistically?

The surprise is a book like this gets created at all! I feel lucky for Fall Line Press to have taken a chance on such a wide-open concept. It’s a tough sell to have a book about everything but I think the team did a fantastic job of making it both surprising and relatable. Plus, Amy Bonnaffon’s essay really brings it all together.

Reader’s Experience: What do you hope readers take away from their experience of "Infinite Bonheur"? Are there particular emotions or revelations you aim to evoke?

Well, I hope people come away with a feeling that is delightful, insightful, funny and dark. Is that too much to ask?

Advice for Aspiring Photographers: Based on your journey in creating "Infinite Bonheur," what advice would you give to photographers looking to develop their own voice and thematic projects?

Trust your gut and do what thrills you and scares you and don’t overthink it. Shoot first ask questions later. Editing is your friend.

Future Projects and Direction: Now that "Infinite Bonheur" is completed, are there new themes or directions you are exploring in your photography? What can your audience look forward to next from your work?

Some directions/themes/projects I am going are men without pants, cruises, and suicide survivors. 

To discover more about this intriguing body of work and how you can acquire your own copy, you can find and purchase the book here. (Amazon, Fall Line Press)

Brittainy Lauback

Brittainy Lauback received her BFA from the University of New Mexico and her MFA from the University of Georgia. Her work has been exhibited in prestigious venues such as the Ogden Museum of Art, Georgia Museum of Art, Bo Bartlett Center, and LaGrange Museum of Art, among others. Currently residing in Houston, Texas, Lauback’s “Infinite Bonheur” showcases her ability to capture the playful absurdity of the human condition with a blend of wit and acuity. Her work delves into themes of mortality and sexuality, inviting viewers to revisit her photos for new insights and discoveries. (Website, Instagram)

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We'd love to read your comments below, sharing your thoughts and insights on the artist's work. Looking forward to welcoming you back for our next [book spotlight]. See you then!