Privat Studies - Platinum Prints

Private Studies presents works that originate from Jan C Schlegel’s personal engagement with his subjects—driven by curiosity and the desire to understand form through close observation.

These studies mark the beginning of many of his photographic investigations. From this process emerged series such as Of Aliens, Mermaids and Medusas, Of Fear and Death, and Creatures of the Seven Seas. What later becomes a structured body of work often begins here: in a direct and intuitive encounter with the subject. These works exist within the field of contemporary fine art photography.

A central aspect of these studies is the deliberate reduction of the image. By isolating the subject against a neutral background, all elements that are not essential are removed. This approach allows form, structure, and detail to emerge with clarity, free from distraction. What begins here as an investigation into reduction becomes a defining principle throughout the artist’s practice—from portraiture to architecture.

The works shown in Private Studies are not defined by a conceptual framework or sequence. They remain independent—formed through observation rather than system. Some originate during the early stages of a series, others exist entirely on their own.

Each image is approached with the same discipline and material rigor, produced as a handmade platinum print. What distinguishes these works is not their process, but their role: they are studies—immediate, exploratory, and complete in themselves.

Private Studies offers direct insight into the foundation of the artist’s practice, where curiosity precedes structure and where the first impulse toward a body of work takes form.

Available as limited edition single prints in sizes of 56 × 76 cm.

Presented at leading international art fairs, including Paris Photo, AIPAD New York, and Photo London.