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Nude man standing in front of a mirror so both sides of his naked body can be seen."Naked, exposed to view or plainly revealed, that is the definition of the word. What Terry Cyr has done through his “Naked Man Project” is just that. He stands exposed to strangers, allowing them to explore freely the parts of his life, most people keep well hidden from the outside world. He does this through the nude male images he skillfully photographs in his studio in Montana. With each image Terry adds to his blog he writes his feelings of the day, allowing the world to essentially read his every thought. While his imagery is stunning, and classical, and can stand on its own merits paired with his words they become something entirely different. The nude male is a taboo subject at best in most society, Terry’s work demands you reexamine what the world has to say about it. His work is educational as well, there is more then a wink and a nod to the past found here. I find I understand the art of photography so much more after reading his blog . Terry’s images and words have become a metaphor of sorts for a man of a certain age, pausing to glance back at where he has been, slowly embracing where he is now, and looking the future square in the face through the eye of a lens.

I believe he his about half way through his project now, In ways he is changing peoples lives, while I suspect he is at the same time learning to truly appreciate his own. It will be a bittersweet day when this is finished, I will be even more proud of my friend then I am now for completing this monumental task, but I will be sad not to watch this year long strip tease of life."

Marklin – Brazil

Man lying naked in a bed of white sheets with his body twisted toward the window looking out.“The first time I saw a Terry Cyr photograph I knew immediately that I had stumbled across a rare talent. The nuances of light and considered composition show a depth of understanding of both the human condition and technical requirements of photography that is on an extraordinary level. In each of Terry’s photos I know to wait and look again, for the surface image and the knowledge of art theory and art history shown is only the beginning of what is revealed to viewer the more they look. For Terry’s photography also requires us to see.”

John Douglas – Australia

Naked man lying on a sofa as the natural light washes accross this body."Terry Cyr’s professional training in theatrical lighting gives him a good start toward technical expertise in photography. His appreciation for and interest in the male form gives him the focus needed to take that expertise to the top. But it is his own sensitive introspection, as evidenced in his Naked Man Project, that brings his work together and makes it truly art. I have been studying male portrait photography for over forty years. Terry’s work is hands-down the best I’ve seen."

—Bryan D. Spellman, Ph.D.

School of Fine Arts, The University of Montana (retired)

Man sitting naked in beautiful window light with his arms wrapped around his legs.

"Terry Cyr's work in the arena of the male nude has set a very high standard in the field.  Terry's work with classic poses, inspired by the likes of Caravaggio and other artists, combined with his amazing mastery of light, has created images that are classic and timeless.  One feels a sense of awe and being at one with the photographer and model when viewing these classic works."

Ramon Reynolds – Costa Rica

 

Black and white of a naked man's torso twisted in strong studio light.

"Terry uses the richness of life lived, passion, and compassion to create a unique melding of subject and self, a sincere and honest collaboration taking his subjects on the greatest exploration - looking at themselves and capturing the essence of their existence – to unveil what is remarkable within themselves. His work, inspired by classical art, takes us to the edge where beauty dwells, explores identity and brings it to light in images that give the subject a different perspective. Terry’s distinctive style observes existence on both a physical and emotional level, draws upon the power and mystery of light to transform, bringing focus to what is important by creating a journey through time and revealing passion lurking within the shadows of images where darkness meets the light and the beauty of humanity emerges."

David Christenson – Missoula Montana

ABOUT PROJECT CREATOR

Brian Gallery button - image sculpted male nude torso in red tonesTravis Gallery button - gritty shirtless man in chainsNate and Zach Gallery button - image of passionate male nude couple in beautiful window lightGeorge Gallery button - image of upper torso on young black male looking out windowChad Gallery button - image of defined front male nude torso in studio light

Featured Guest Artist

Thomas Acevedo - American Painter

"I love the male form and I love conveying a quiet vulnerability and masculinity.  The paintings are usually a compilation of photographs that I shoot and then put together using this hand with that arm or that head. They are figurative paintings but I try to transfer an emotion or a stage of my spiritual growth onto the canvas.  Layer by layer, I apply acrylic house paint and glaze, building references to the emotion I am trying to express. In spite of its personal nature, my work relays a struggle with life's trials and burdens that is universally felt and understood."

 

Book Of The Month

Cover for John Boyne's book The Heart's Invisible FuriesThe Heart's Invisible Furies - John Boyne (Irish)

A delightful and sometimes tragic epic romp through the course of a man’s life.  It's main character, Cyril Avery, takes you on a literal journey of a lifetime, as his story unfolds in seven year increments, throughout eleven phases of his life.  A sort of coming of age, after realizing he is different, and the often painful repercussions of coming to terms with his sexual attraction to men.  [read review]

Rating: ★★★★★

Movie Of The Week

movie poster for film VELVET GOLDMINEVelvet Goldmine (British)

A visual romp through the world of 1970’s glam rock, where anything can happen and often done. It’s Citizen Kane sort of story structure leads to unpredictable places often spiraling out of control.  A stunning film to watch with a great sound track but often loses its way along the journey.  Overall very fun to watch with these three great actors: McGregor, Rhys Meyers, and Bale in their youth; giving powerhouse performances and often naked.  [read review]

Rating: ★★★★