Smoke Break

Laura Noel’s portraits show us the attitudes, defiance, enjoyment, resignation and contentment, of those who continue to smoke cigarettes in the face of intense public disapproval. A residue of glamour can also be seen in these photographs – the theatrical inhaling and exhaling, the sensual pleasure of watching smoke float and dissipate in the air and the primal lure of fire. More importantly, these images reveal that for some, smoking is a gateway to a state of contemplation. A former smoker describes this phenomenon; "Unique amongst the addictive drugs, smoking has the special power to bring the user to a medium. It doesn’t make you high and it doesn’t calm you down. It does both. If you’re feeling anxious, it has a leveling effect. If you’re feeling down, it has a leveling effect." This introspective break in a busy world is more valuable to smokers than non-smokers would imagine. Since the anti-smoking movement began gaining momentum in the early 1970’s, culminating in the current ban on public consumption, smokers have become social refugees banished to windy corners, cars and private rooms. Noel is interested in the idea that society has become so disenchanted with smokers, it has tried to legislate them out of existence. She is fascinated by the small rebellions and compulsions that propel people to continue smoking in such a socio-political climate. Of course, smoking is unhealthy and potentially fatal, but Noel’s images are not a defense of this dangerous practice, but instead a portrait of a diverse group of people united by a habit. The pull of addiction and self-image is strong as evidenced by these images.