Real Men Strip Down for Photographer Stuart Carruthers
Photographer Stuart Carruthers is giving Gayety an exclusive glimpse into his portfolio and telling us why he isn't concerned with categorizing his style of nude portraiture.
Stuart Carruthers is an artist revealing the complexity and beauty of masculinity through his art — one photograph at a time. Born in the suburbs of Birmingham and now based in Walthamstow, London, Stuart has developed an artistic style that challenges traditional depictions of masculinity, using his creativity to celebrate the vulnerability and multitudes of men.
Early Life and Influences
Born in 1982, Stuart describes his childhood as a blend of typical suburban experiences and an inherent sense of being "different" from his peers. Stuart reflects, "I was branded as 'sensitive' and found the company of women more comforting."
These early observations of gender dynamics left a lasting impact, sparking a lifelong curiosity about understanding men.
It wouldn't be until decades later that Stuart's artistic journey officially began during a 2019 trip to Lyon, France. After purchasing a book of old city photographs, he was inspired to explore photography as a serious pursuit. After that, his early experiences began to inform his photography work. Despite a late start, his natural intuition and interest in human connections quickly positioned him as a creator of fine art photography.
The Power of Photography
For Stuart, photography is more than an art form — it's a medium for connection. He credits his work with helping him bridge the gap in his personal relationships with men, which he feels have often been marked by "awkwardness."
He says, "Photography gave me a new way to interact and understand, fostering dialogue and building confidence in myself and my subjects."
Stuart's approach is centered on creating a relaxed environment. "Most of the people I photograph aren't professional models, and I love that," he says. Their natural state and openness allow me to capture authenticity, which resonates with viewers."
Artistic Vision and Style
Stuart's work continually showcases his ability to capture the contrasts and nuanced depictions of the male form. He draws inspiration from iconic photographers like George Platt Lynes and Herb Ritts and painters like John Singer Sargent. "I've always been drawn to black-and-white photography because of my colorblindness, but over time, I've evolved to experiment with color, influenced by fashion and painting," he explains.
Stuart's style blends artistic modalities, paying homage to classical art while simultaneously pushing boundaries and ideals regarding art, masculinity, and nudity.
Drawing inspiration from Pre-Raphaelite ideals, Stuart challenges the traditional stoic portrayal of men, instead highlighting their vulnerability and softness. "I like to offer something that dances between categories, introducing elements of introspection and emotional depth."
Stuart strives to redefine the portrayal of man in photography, specifically the nude male body — encouraging his audiences to see the world — and each other — in a new light.