The Extraordinary Within Ordinary Imdad Barbhuyan

Whether striking potraits or still objects laid down on a table with white cloth, everything is seen in a nostalgic warm light through the lens of Imdad Barbhuyan. Imdad Barbhuyan's photography beautifully intertwines personal narrative with profound visual storytelling. Barbhuyan’s photography is celebrated for its ability to evoke deep emotional resonance through intimate and thought-provoking imagery. Their approach, characterized by a keen eye for detail and a sensitivity to the subtleties of human experience, allows viewers to see the extraordinary within the ordinary. We sit down to know more about their style.

Can you share an example of a photograph or series where you felt a connection to your work, and how that experience impacted you as an artist?
The series titled ‘4 Sisters in 40 Years in 40 Portraits’ by Nicholas Nixon deeply moved me. This series captures the evolution of the same four sisters over four decades. The consistent, intimate framing and the subtle changes in the sisters’ appearances create a poignant narrative about the passage of time and the bonds of family. 

Another impactful work is Deanna Dikeman's ‘Leaving and Waving’ which documents the artist’s farewell moments with her parents, capturing the often unspoken emotions of leaving and saying goodbye. Dikeman’s ability to capture these fleeting moments with such honesty and tenderness has inspired me to consider how small, everyday interactions can hold profound emotional weight in my own work.

Both of these series have influenced me by demonstrating the power of capturing personal, intimate moments and their ability to tell a deeper, universal story through the lens of everyday life.

How do you believe photography can influence or change the way people perceive and interact with the world around them?
Photography, to me, is the art of seeing yourself reflected in the world around you and capturing those moments to either cherish them or share them with others. It's a medium that allows us to slow down and truly notice the subtle details that often go unnoticed—the way light dances on water, the texture of an ageing leaf or the fleeting smile on a stranger's face. 

Photographers, in many ways, are storytellers who speak through their subjects, inviting viewers to see the world through a different lens. By immortalising these brief moments of beauty, photography has the power to shift perspectives, foster a deeper connection with the world and inspire us to recognize the extraordinary in the everyday.

Your photographs often look like still life paintings. There are objects laid down on the table beautifully, what attracts you towards the drama of still life?
Still lives are a subtle yet powerful way to tell a story without explicitly narrating it. Beyond their functional roles, objects are deeply expressive. The shape, colour, and texture of the items we choose reflect something of ourselves—our tastes, memories and our cultural identities. Over time, these objects become imbued with significance - they all become symbols of our everyday existence.

When I arrange a set of objects on a table, I’m not just creating a composition; I’m crafting a narrative. I’m drawn to the mystery and the layers of meaning that can be conveyed through these arrangements of everyday items.

You often also capture self-portraits, does it affect your perspective of yourself and how?
As a non-binary person navigating everyday life in a city like Delhi, it’s not always easy. Through my self-portraits, I create a space where I can exist authentically, without the need to justify or conform to traditional gender norms. The process allows me to explore and express my identity on my own terms.

I find solace in the ambiguity and fluidity that I can create with my body. Viewing myself as a sculpture, I experiment with shapes and compositions, embracing the sensuality and humanity of my form. This exploration of self through portraiture not only helps me to articulate my personal narrative but also offers a way to reflect on and embrace my ever evolving self.

There's a lot of use of warm tones in your photography, tell us about the style and the aesthetic you intend to keep in mind while shooting a series.
My photography embraces a style that is warm, comforting and nostalgic. I aim to create images that evoke a sense of familiarity and peace, drawing viewers into a space that feels both intimate and timeless. With warm tones and soft lighting, I try to infuse my work with a gentle, soothing quality that reflects my soft inner self and also resonates with the viewer on a deeply personal level.