Award-winning photographer Pari Dukovic is returning to his roots in more ways than one with his latest exhibition, “From Istanbul to New York: A Photographer’s Journey.” Now on display in his hometown of Istanbul, the exhibition serves as a captivating retrospective of his life’s work. Dukovic’s journey, which began with a camera gifted by his father at the tender age of eight, has taken him from the vibrant streets of Istanbul to the artistic hub of New York City. This exhibition celebrates the journey and the evolution of his photographic style.
The historic baroque Sismanoglio Megaro building, serving as the Greek consulate in the heart of Istanbul’s bustling Istklal Avenue, provides a fitting backdrop for this captivating showcase. Presented in chronological order, the exhibition begins with stunning views of Istanbul, capturing the city’s unique energy and beauty. For Dukovic, Istanbul holds immense sentimental value as the place where his photographic journey began.
As visitors move through the exhibition, they are greeted by captivating snapshots of New York City, paying homage to the city that honed his skills and shaped his artistic growth. The centerpiece of the exhibition features some of Dukovic’s most masterful portraits, showcasing his signature style and dynamic compositions. Among the subjects immortalized in his work are prominent figures like Barack Obama, David Lynch, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I, and Lionel Messi, all displayed within the historic walls of the Sismanoglio Megaro.
Dukovic himself explained at the exhibition’s opening that his passion for photography, as a means of “exploring and expressing the world,” led him from Istanbul to the U.S. There, he seized the opportunity to meet and photograph some of the most influential figures of our time. He shared with the audience that his drive to capture the essence of his subjects in a short amount of time has made him highly sought after by publications worldwide. He recounted the challenges he faced during a portrait session with President Obama in 2017, where he had a mere 2.5 minutes to take 47 shots during a White House session. He explained that magazines often hire him for his ability to create captivating portraits under tight deadlines.
Dukovic’s portraits are instantly recognizable for their signature style, characterized by vibrant colors and dynamic compositions that capture the essence of his subjects. Greek Consul General Konstantinos Koutras praised Dukovic’s artistic career, highlighting the influence of his life experiences, beginning in Istanbul and continuing in the U.S., where he has captured iconic figures from various fields, leaving an indelible mark on history.
Over the past decade, Dukovic’s editorial photography has graced the pages of top U.S. and European magazines. He served as staff photographer for *Time* magazine from 2012 to 2018, contributing to key profiles. His work includes all six covers of *Time’s* special Time 100 issue, and he earned the 2018 Clio Gold Campaign of the Year for his work with *Time*. His photographs are featured in The Smithsonian’s collection, and he shot the covers for Barack Obama’s memoir and NASCAR legend Jimmie Johnson’s book. For Rizzoli’s *Dance* publication, he captured 129 costumes on 11 dancers. The exhibition will be open to the public until October 23rd, offering a unique opportunity to experience the journey of a master photographer.
