When coming to New York for the first time last April, Conceição Praun, a photographer and filmmaker passionate about environmental issues, decided to focus her attention on NYC’s environment and document her observations through a series of original black and white photographs.

Ms. Praun is recognized internationally for her persistence in travelling the world to document the environment. Those trips and meetings have opened her eyes to various environmental issues and has contributed greatly towards Praun’s attitude of questioning the human’s values on the 21st century.

“I would like to express just how difficult it has been for me to encourage people here in New York City to recognize the importance of their awareness to our environment. Often I have felt frustrated by the seeming lack of interest displayed by many. I have found myself to be a pioneer, touching lives with these very real issues that are crucial for our survival. I have come to recognize that the senses of the masses appear dulled and have nurtured extreme passive attitudes towards our social dilemmas that we should responsibly address. We are all part of a great family called the human race living on planet Earth. Take care of the environment -- it’s not only our collective responsibility, but is also our right to do so without obstruction. To this, I remain committed.” - Conceição Praun

About the Artist Conceição Praun was born in Olinda, Pernambuco in the north east of Brazil. Ms. Praun developed an interest in the “camera obscura” and learned the principles of this optical device while living in London where she had her first showcase. Ms. Praun then moved to Paris where she met George Fèvre (1930-2007), a master of photo development who was an apprentice to Henri Cartier-Bresson. This relationship encouraged Ms Praun’s deep appreciation on his theory of ‘l’instant décisif’. Fèvre became Ms. Praun’s mentor and exercised a great influence on her career, she promised him that she would focus on the metaphysical contrasts of black and white. Her photographs favor spontaneity over prose and composition. Praun travels the world seeking to highlight the conditions of social and environmental circumstances in order to create awareness on society’s behaviors. “Take care of our environment—it’s a duty which transcends cultural, socioeconomic and all kind of boundaries.” – Conceição