Q. In the series Mystic Lake, the photographer Katy Grannan has carefully placed her subjects in soft green grass. What thoughts and associations does this placement bring to mind? Why do you think Grannan made this choice? Do these photographs make you uncomfortable and if so, why? 

A. It is hard to say for sure because Grannan’s narratives are nuanced, but what comes to mind is that she has placed her subjects in soft “nests” (similar to the nest a cat might make in which to give birth). There are many visual contrasts in these photographs: the grass is tender but the subjects appear weary; the space is intimate but anonymous; these look like hiding places but the subjects are deeply unguarded and allowing themselves to be seen. There are also other details associated with the vulnerability of a nest: awkward poses, partial nudity, and dampness. These are only guesses, since Grannan’s work defies literal interpretations, but the visual clues are consistent with deep personal vulnerability. Grannan’s genius as a photographer is, in part, in her ability to connect with her subjects and to recognize people who are often overlooked and marginalized. Her work is both arresting and disconcerting for this reason. Ultimately, she keeps her viewers engaged in stories that generate as many questions as they do answers. Gannan’s work can be emotionally disquieting since she allows us to stare, unchecked, at people in situations that we would normally look away from.