Most would find it difficult to picture a wild animal in a domestic setting with floral wallpapers and cushioned carpets. Not so, for this artist. In her book Animal House, Catherine Ledner strips away our pre-cast notions of wildlife photography and presents quirky studio portraits of the animal world. From farmyard favourites like pigs and goats, to wild and free critters like owls and armadillos, the subjects seem to share many of the qualities we humans betray in raw portraiture – vulnerability, innocence, pride, whimsicality.
Out of their natural habitat, these creatures appear both fragile and beautiful, provoking a unique wonder and sympathy. As much as they inspire and engage, they invite us to consider our own responsibilities as stewards of the Earth, the instrumental part we play in ensuring the preservation and conservation of the habitats and populations of all the planet’s inhabitants.
In an interview with ASIAN Geographic, Ledner discusses the idea behind the project and the joys and tribulations of making these fascinating images.