Tired alchemist and large format mishaps
Too tired to play alchemist and lacking concentration, the lid came off the film dev tank twice during processing. Despite the massive light leaks, the exposure was excellent, which is encouraging. Rather than throw out the negatives exposed to excessive light during development, I continued with the process. The fades and streaks of light emerge, transforming a picturesque landscape photograph into a hauntingly evocative scene opening alternative modes of perception and observation.
Figure 1. Scan of original 4x5” negative accidentally exposed during the developing process, 2022
Figure 2. Scan of 4x5” original negative accidentally exposed during the developing process, 2022
Having worked in experimental film photography for six months, I need to get back to the basics of film photography to remind myself of the principle of the craft, that I am capable of making a beautiful exposure. In addition, film photography is a grounding experience where I feel calm, inspired and secure.
Figure 3. Yarra River, 2022, scan of original 4x5” negative capture with Graflex Speed Graphic (c.1940)
Figure 4. Bluestone drain, 2022, scan of original 4x5” negative capture with Graflex Speed Graphic (c.1940)
Figure 5. Fairfield paper mill, 2022, scan of original 4x5” negative capture with Graflex Speed Graphic (c.1940)
Keywords
Film photography, Serendipity, Graflex, Yarra River, Paper mill, Bluestone drain
Group crit 1
Equanimity was shown for the first Studio 1 'Group Crit'. I felt most attempted to 'assert' knowledge (Foucault 2020, 1–153) of the photographic process rather than deconstructing and feedback to 'artworks' (although I do believe that it was given with no ill intent). This response to experimental or alternative modes of photography is commonplace. Contemporary photographer Adam Fuss discusses how the 'technical' is often raised in viewing works stating that 'technical' is irrelevant. Fuss (2011, 00:38) asserts, "We have the illusion that we're going to understand [the image] by a piece of technical information". The artist continues, stating, "I don't see it happen with painting. I don't see people say, 'Hey, did you use a number seven brush and cadmium three'?". Despite coming a long way with being objective in critiques, I grew impatient and frustrated and 'reacted' rather than 'responded', the Group Crit has provided practical prompts to further improve my people skills (which are not my strong point).
Zo Damage, Equanimity, 2022, (IRL) Archival pigment print from scan of original 35mm negative, 1100x360mm
Definition
equanimity
noun
mental or emotional stability or composure, especially under tension or strain; calmness; equilibrium. (dictionary.com)
Keywords
MFA, Studio 1, Equanimity, Group crit, Freeway, 35mm, Film photography
Bibliography
"Definition Of Equanimity". dictionary.com. Accessed April 28, 2022. https://www.dictionary.com/browse/equanimity.
Foucault, Michel. 2020. Power. 3rd ed. UK: Penguin.
Fuss, Adam. 2011. "A&A Portrait - Adam Fuss". 123marketstreet. March 30, 2011. YouTube video, 02:03. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QxpeNIN0iRA.