Susan Gans, "Out of Context"- December 2002
This work explores the changing face of neighborhoods and juxtapositions
caused by the placement of objects out of their original context. It is a
look at the old and new, gritty and elegant. The result is a redefinition
of the urban landscape, especially through the photo etchings. These images
generally have little relation to what was "documented" when the photograph
was taken. They begin from observations made about commonplace sights.
Sometimes there is humor but often there is concern about our throwaway
society. Progress is not always progress.
The final images result in contradictions and a new story line. The work
speaks to my curiosity and sense of mystery about what I have found. Is
there something beneath the surface about this scene or is it just
coincidence that these objects were placed as they were? Sometimes, the
questions just provide more questions. Sometimes, that is enough.
The images are made from different photographic and printmaking techniques
processes. Mainly the prints are "solar plate" etchings which is a
low-tech and safer method of producing prints. There are no toxic
chemicals involved in the etching process since the etching plate has an
emulsion on it sensitive to UV light and/or the sun. The plates are exposed
to light and then "developed" with water. They are inked and printed like
any other etching plate. There is some initial digital input in the
reconfiguration of images and transfer to the solar plates.
Most of the photographs are silver gelatin prints from 35 mm negatives. In
the exhibition, there is some work from polaroid film or done as
chromogenic prints from color negatives printed in a darkroom setting.
Out of Context will be on view at Gallery 110, 110 S. Washington Street, Seattle from December 4-28, 2002. On December 4th, there is a preview from 5-8pm and on December 5th, First Thursday, the gallery is open from 6-8pm.
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