CLAMP is pleased to present Orange blossom trail, an exhibition of photographs by Joshua Lutz, drawn from his recently published book of the same name, a collaboration with esteemed writer George Saunders.
Lutz’s Orange blossom trail delves into the complex realities of life in Central Florida, a region often romanticized for its sunshine and theme parks, yet grappling with economic hardship, social inequality, and environmental fragility. Lutz’s lens captures this dichotomy, revealing a landscape imbued with both beauty and struggle.
The exhibition features a selection of Lutz’s evocative photographs, offering glimpses into the lives of individuals navigating this challenging terrain. Images of lush landscapes interspersed with portraits of residents hint at the underlying tensions between the idyllic façade and the lived experiences of those who call it home.
Lutz’s photographs capture moments of both quiet desperation and unexpected beauty. We see evidence of the region’s struggles in images of dilapidated buildings, neglected neighborhoods, and individuals grappling with poverty and isolation. Yet, amidst these challenges, Lutz also finds moments of resilience, hope, and human connection.
Lutz’s work prompts viewers to consider the complexities of place and identity, and the human capacity for perseverance in the face of adversity. Orange blossom trail offers a nuanced and compassionate portrayal of a region often overlooked and misunderstood.
Joshua Lutz graduated with an MFA in photography from Bard College/The International Center for Photography in 2005, and is now Assistant Professor of Photography at Suny Purchase. His other monographs include Meadowlands (powerHouse, 2008), Hesitating neauty (Schilt Publishing, 2012), and Mind the gap (Schilt Publishing, 2018). He has received many prestigious awards and grants, including The Aaron Siskind Fellowship; The Tierney fellowship; and the Hudson Year Fellowship. Lutz has exhibited his work internationally in numerous shows over the past fifteen years.