Arrested Adolescence
capturing youth in this time
Photography By Alex Hall
New York City photographer Alex Hall shares her photography book, “Arrested Adolescence”, mugshot style portrait series depicting youth and underground culture throughout New York and Europe. Alex opens up about how the series started in her bedroom, its commentary on corruption, and how to always trust your intuition.
New York City, USA
How did you begin your journey as a photographer?
I have been wardrobe styling for many years. I always wanted to try photography but never could afford a camera. During covid I saved money and bought a Nikon film camera. Once the world opened up again I was eager for human interaction and began photographing friends, mainly artists and musicians I would surround myself with.
What have you learned along the way?
I have learned so much that is a tough question, I would say trust your intuition and your vision. Nowadays there's so many opinions with social media and what direction to take artistically. It is important to stay true to yourself, especially in a world as superficial as the one we live in.
How would you describe your work? What makes your perspective unique and different?
Growing up in New York makes you grow up quickly, you see things the average person won't see at any age. I grew up with a father who amplified music and a reckless lifestyle. So I think my work definitely speaks to the rebellious, and chaotic. My work will always have a sense of spontaneity and recklessness. I want people to feel something when they see my work, if not there is not much point is there?
Your work focuses on fashion photography and portraiture. What do you love about this style of photography? How does it inspire you ?
People inspire me, their stories, their talents, their traumas. I am a great listener and love to have people share their lives with me even if it is only for five minutes capturing a portrait haha. I think a lot of people think they do not matter, those are the people I like to capture and focus on.
You are sharing your photo book, 'Arrested Adolescence', about youth and underground culture throughout New York and Europe. What is the story behind this project?
It started with me making a mugshot from scratch in my bedroom and the next day I went to some strangers' apartment to shoot since I couldn't afford a studio. I loved the portrait and decided to make it a series and now a book. I think it shows a lot about capturing youth in this time, all different types of people and faces. Also the corruption in America and the world. People get locked up wrongfully everyday and I think that's something people should think about. Police corruption and power, fuck the police for real.
What was the process like behind each portrait session?
It was different each time, casting was not the easiest but I am grateful for the people and friends who were a part of it. Means a lot, but yeah I think I loved the times people really went for it. Made crazy expressions and dived into character.
How did the book come to life? What were some highs and lows you experienced while putting it together?
I just made it haha, if you want to create something you just gotta go for it, no one will do it for you. I was raised by strong women who told me I have to be tough to survive in this world. A high was printing it all and fucking up the pages. A low was resizing and formatting that shit sucks hahah!
How do you think 'Arrested Adolescence' shows your growth and evolution as an artist?
Anything I do is a learning experience, I think this book made me work on impulse and to trust my intuition more. To stop second guessing myself.
Recently you celebrated the launch of the book by throwing an exhibition in New York City. How did it go?
It was great so many friends and new people came, and I loved the location. It took place in an old Brooklyn apartment with a beautiful interior. Elensio who runs The Hancock Foundation is very kind and she gives artists creative space to make magical events happen! My friend Elias Ronnenfelt was in town, and kind enough to play a set. I think he and I have very similar artistic viewpoints so it's always a pleasure when we collaborate! It was a very special evening!!
What's next for 'Arrested Adolescence' ? What's next for you?
I might take a break haha, been working nonstop and I think I need to sit back and rest a bit. Even though there’s talks on doing a launch in Europe so I guess I will rest when I am dead haha!
