Through the Veil (2016-17)
Corpse Given Life, video 2017
Chemosynthetic, video 2017
Languid Degradation, video 2017
About Through the Veil:
Through the Veil, a series of photographs, concentrates on the inter-relationship within patterns in nature. Interested in the intricate patterns that form during decomposition of everything from the body to man-made objects, I use non-conventional darkroom methods and the most basic element of photography, the emulsion or “skin”, on which I create natural patterns that are representational of decay.
To make my positives, the gelatin-based emulsion floats on top of the glass and is manipulated by the chemical processes of the darkroom. This creates a surface riddled with a variety of textures and patterns that gives each image an intense and unique physicality. These textures and patterns are formed naturally through experimentation with different photo chemicals and resemble naturally occurring patterns, such as topography or the veins underneath human skin. As a result of improper chemical use, the colors that form in the emulsion also occasionally resemble bruising or decomposing flesh. The use of handmade negatives and suggested photographic imagery creates abstract landscapes and spaces that add depth to the composition.
Through the Veil merges technical experimentation with my conceptual interest in the science of both photography and natural decay. Monopolizing on incorrect technique, mistakes, and chance, I create images that are undeniably beautiful. They ask that the viewer suspend their understanding of what a “good photo” is by the removing reference to photographic representation. These abstractions bridge the mediums of photography and drawing or painting through the gestural marks created by the emulsion and the illusionistic depth created by the scanning process.
Through the Veil, a series of photographs, concentrates on the inter-relationship within patterns in nature. Interested in the intricate patterns that form during decomposition of everything from the body to man-made objects, I use non-conventional darkroom methods and the most basic element of photography, the emulsion or “skin”, on which I create natural patterns that are representational of decay.
To make my positives, the gelatin-based emulsion floats on top of the glass and is manipulated by the chemical processes of the darkroom. This creates a surface riddled with a variety of textures and patterns that gives each image an intense and unique physicality. These textures and patterns are formed naturally through experimentation with different photo chemicals and resemble naturally occurring patterns, such as topography or the veins underneath human skin. As a result of improper chemical use, the colors that form in the emulsion also occasionally resemble bruising or decomposing flesh. The use of handmade negatives and suggested photographic imagery creates abstract landscapes and spaces that add depth to the composition.
Through the Veil merges technical experimentation with my conceptual interest in the science of both photography and natural decay. Monopolizing on incorrect technique, mistakes, and chance, I create images that are undeniably beautiful. They ask that the viewer suspend their understanding of what a “good photo” is by the removing reference to photographic representation. These abstractions bridge the mediums of photography and drawing or painting through the gestural marks created by the emulsion and the illusionistic depth created by the scanning process.
Installation images from Through the Veil at Terminal 136 in San Antonio, TX
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Images courtesy of Victoria Jones