Color City

Frank Kunert is happy his photographs have an “analog” look about them. After all, he did hand-make the models himself.

Before the German photographer even snaps a single shot, he is in his studio, creating 3D model subjects—usually industrial grey constructs in still, almost poetic, settings—out of deco boards, plasticine, and paint. It could take weeks, even months, before Frank is fully satisfied that each model is indeed flawless.

Models that could could pass for the real thing, and photographs that portray complete worlds of their own. Probably the best part of Frank’s work, though—aside from his impeccable attention to detail, of course—is how understated his models are. Frank keeps his scenes decidedly simple, not trying too hard, yet with a tongue-in-cheek humor that comes out through each still life photo.

The intended punchline is word play or a subtle jab.