If a person dies in a hospital, it does not mean they had a bad death, says documentary photographer Gabriela Teplická
Documentary photographer Gabriela Teplická addresses the complex emotions surrounding death in her latest exhibition and ongoing dialogue with viewers.
Gabriela Teplická, a documentary photographer from Slovakia, captures the moments surrounding death in her latest series, titled 'Moment: The Touch of Death'. Through her lens, she aims to create a safe space for discussing this often-taboo subject. Teplická shares how family members of the deceased often approach her, seeking to express their feelings and experiences regarding the dying process and the impact it has had on their lives.
Her exhibitions often evoke deep emotional responses, with visitors sharing their own stories and sentiments about death, revealing both the beauty and the pain associated with these experiences. At a recent photo festival in Šumiac, Teplická found that attendees felt comfortable discussing their encounters with death, noting that these conversations provided an unexpected sense of relief for both parties involved. The dialogic approach she has fostered around the subject starkly contrasts with the societal discomfort surrounding discussions of death.
Teplická's endeavor is not just about documenting death but also about self-discovery and encouraging open discussions about mortality. Her work challenges cultural norms which often silence conversations about death, providing a platform for individuals to reflect on their experiences and feelings, whether they are good or bad. By facilitating these discussions, she aims to help people process their grief and understand that the end of life can encompass moments of beauty and meaning.