The American Myth: Photography series explores nostalgia of the American dream

In a photography series inspired by both the paintings of Edward Hopper and the general mise en scène of David Lynch, photographer Francoise Gaujour explores the concept of the American Dream, and its relevance today.

She explains: "Lynch was inspired by Hopper for framework, for this exquisite timelessness, for the colour. The filmmaker uses the expressionism of colour as a filter that distorts reality.

"Lynch is fascinated by this portrait of a postwar American myth that Hopper conveyed through his canvases. The painter devoted to the serene reflections of back country America, to its peaceful inhabitants and to the dreams of the "American Way" of this wild west asleep.

"Hopper's paintings reflect a changing society: they depict the quality of life and the existence of the middle class growing in the first half of the twentieth century. They show the loneliness in big cities and characters that seem to regret some disappearing America."

Paris-based Francoise Gaujour began her photography career after a long stint as a radio and television journalist. Since the early 2000s, her work has been exhibited in France and Italy. Discover more at francoisegaujour.net.

All images copyright and courtesy of Francoise Gaujour

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