Diego Martinez Chacon Presents Sophomore Book "MEDITATIONS" at London’s Photobook Cafe

In a one-day-only preview event, celebrated photographer Diego Martinez Chacon debuted his latest book, "MEDITATIONS," at the Photobook Cafe on 4 Leonard Circus, London. The downstairs gallery of this beloved local haunt will host a 17-image gallery installation, offering visitors a sneak peek into Chacon's most ambitious project to date. Accompanying the gallery will be a complete flip-through of the new book, the inaugural publication of Chacon’s newly established publishing house, Bellas Artes Maison Créative.

"The book is meant to serve as a monograph for the last five years of my work in photography," Chacon explained. After meticulously reviewing an extensive archive of thousands of negatives, Chacon distilled his work into 100 images that encapsulate the essence of his creative journey. "We landed on 100 that felt crucial to condensing the work into a series of feelings, tones, and colours that would best represent the work and the five-year journey," he elaborated.

Chacon envisions "MEDITATIONS" as a timeless piece, a book that offers lasting value. "I wanted to make something that you could pick up in 50 years and look back on. That's what I love most about books, they create value for themselves over time."

The art direction of "MEDITATIONS" is heavily influenced by Brutalism, a style that has significantly shaped Chacon’s visual sensibility. "A lot of the images were shot in London, and I think Brutalism and the general cityscape of London have been crucial in shaping my eye as an image-maker," Chacon shared. His photographic journey began with capturing the stark forms of buildings and architecture in 2019. Over time, these studies evolved, transitioning from concrete structures to the subtleties of form and the human body.

Another intriguing influence on the book’s design is The Beatles' White Album, known for its minimalist cover. "No title, no context, just music. I love that," Chacon said. He aimed to create a book that stands out through its subtlety. "If you're looking at a bookshelf full of titles and covers, the one that stands out is probably the one that has absolutely nothing on it." This minimalist philosophy is reflected in the design of "MEDITATIONS," which only bears the name of the publishing house on its spine, marking it as their first title.

The physicality of "MEDITATIONS" is a testament to Chacon’s appreciation for raw materials and meticulous craftsmanship. Measuring 24cm x 31.5cm, the hardcover book spans 220 pages and is Swiss bound with mixed paper. "I loved the idea of approaching the book as subtly as possible - a study on raw material, like Brutalism. It's just cardboard, paper, and some string. But together, with an offset printing process, it becomes a book that holds an archive of images, and suddenly becomes a document to preserve."

Chacon’s "MEDITATIONS" is a meticulously crafted artifact that invites viewers to delve into a visual and emotional exploration. The one-day preview at Photobook Cafe offered a unique opportunity to experience this profound work firsthand before it becomes a sought-after piece in the world of art and photography.

Purchase 'MEDITATIONS' HERE