I hit Rumors around 11:35 PM which turned out to be an opportune time for me to see the show. The few stragglers mixed amongst the artists themselves gave me plenty of room to move around in a space that could have quickly turned chaotic. Obviously, a clothing store is a unique place for an exhibit, so there were some distracting space and lighting issues. At times I couldn't tell what was supposed to be part of the show, but then again searching for photos in small corners and hanging above clothing racks did give the show an interactive personality. Downstairs there were a lot of smaller photographs scattered around. Several of the smaller ones became some of my favorites, while others got lost because of their snapshot qualities and lack of organization.
The "light box" photos were my favorite part of the show. The color transparencies lit from behind white window frames by light boxes. Not only was the presentation interesting, but these were some of the most sophisticated images. They were multi-dimensional and looked intentional in a good way. I also liked how each had it's own nook to sit in and cast a pleasant light on the work surrounding it.
The upstairs balcony seemed like a uniquely intimate space for people to interact with work. I was fortunate to be the only one upstairs at the time because it probably would have been difficult to see all of the work otherwise. The large color prints stacked with discarded cardboard boxes gave an interesting relationship between photograph and gallery space but also minimized walking space. Lighting then became a bit of an issue because of the choice to light them from the floor. I wish I would have known more about the series because I felt like I wasn't quite getting the concept that was supposed to be presented. Props for paying a lot of attention to presentation and creating an environment for the work, but I wish the photos didn't have to fight for attention.
when did you go to this?
ReplyDeleteIt says in the firs sentence. I went straight from the darkroom on Sat night.
ReplyDeleteWhat is your stance on artist statements? Did you read the ones that were at the show? How did they influence your viewing of the show? Or did they?
ReplyDeleteHassan
I read anything anyone puts in front of me, so if it's on the wall next to the work I can't help but read it. I am always very skeptical of artists statements because one of my AFO professors made me think that artists lie all the time about their ideas. I have no idea if this is true or not, but I usually wait to read the statement until after I look at the work. I did look for an artist statement at the stiff lace show but must have missed them, otherwise I would have liked to read them.
ReplyDelete