Why can't we be more recognized ?
By Chris on Sunday 20 September 2009, 13:48 - general discussion - Permalink
It seems scannography doesn't make it to bigger
medias.
And if it does it is considered as strange photographic technic. I have this
feeling that this is essentially due to what we are. I mean we mostly (the big
part of us scannographers) are working at home, taking pictures of little
things from our near environment. We don't take pictures from things that
concern the others. So why should they be interested ? Photography is
different, you show things to people that concerns them, so they look at a kind
of mirror of themselves.
We only propose a look at what WE are.
In a certain way scannography is much more an artistic way of working then
photography is…
So, if we want our works to be seen, we have, I think, to stick together, try to push things together… Give us your feelings about this, write some comments, share ideas… Long live scannography!
Comments
Oh Christian...
Please cheer up!
I'm happy to bring another side to the argument, or as my father said, "I'll take your bait..."
Regarding the topic of recognition:
I think that the odd process of scanning may be a concept that may initially capture the audience's attention but the power to last in the viewer's memory is in the image, regardless of the technique used in its creation.
I first used a flatbed scanner as photographic device in 1997, before that in the late 1980's a color laser copier was my tool for documenting collections of 3D objects. This project began as a visual exploration of aspects of self, expressed allegorically. However, over the years, my flatbed scanner has led me to revisit and translate older art genres such as botanical illustration, still life, object collections, trompe l'oeil, mosaics and digital compositing. The acquisition of my materials necessitated soliciting others to provide the means for my art. At first my neighborhood, friends and family gave and lent me things. However, the most remarkable aspect to this endeavor has always been in the generosity of strangers! Of course, now I consider former "strangers" to be current friends. This connection with the community and the perpetual beauty of nature has been what has sustained my motivation for scanning over the years.
Regarding outward recognition, I am delighted to report the good fortune of good press and wonderful exhibition opportunities. My solo show of 34 works has just ended at the gallery at Tower Hill Botanic Garden in Massachusetts, Here's an announcement of the show in a newspaper local to the event:
http://www.worcestermagazine.com/co...
I have committed to a solo exhibition at Weller Gallery at Fellows Riverside Gardens in Ohio for next summer. The gallery is comprised of two 80 ft long walls. Here's a glimpse at the exhibit space:
www.millcreekmetroparks.com/ParksFacilities/nbspnbspnbspnbspDavisVisitorCenter/WellerGallery/tabid/2007/Default.aspx
My Press website page also links to some past articles:
http://www.myneighborsgarden.com/pr...
This month, there is also an article in a Connecticut Home and Garden Magazine.
http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?...
It does overstate my commercial success but also expresses my gratitude to those who make my photography possible.
And yes... I have always considered scanning to be Photography. That's why I have been reluctant to use the term Scanography, which was initially used to describe medical scanning using different, specialized equipment. True, at first it was hard gaining acceptance into some organizations for photographers called "Camera Clubs", but now that has all changed. I was invited to present my work at the New York Photographer's Salon in Manhattan, NYC. I can't convey the level of inspiration derived from those monthly meetings. Last spring, George Schaub, Editor of Shutterbug Magazine and juror of a Connecticut photo competition chose my entry for the First Place prize. That meant the world to me, in terms of validation of scanning as photographic process. Shutterbug Magazine is focused on technological developments in photography with a particular emphasis on camera design and functionality. Here's a link to the online version:
http://www.shutterbug.com/
Here's a quote from the photo show program:
On digital imagery: "Because digital photography seems easier it doesnʼt make it easier. It just makes it more accessible. Capturing an image is key. Manipulation is up for grabs. You have to make more decisions after you capture the image and in many cases the picture juststarts when you take the picture. You have to do your own manipulation, your own decision making. The scanned image (Best in Show) works because the process and the vision are perfectly melded. The ultimate expression of technology is in how thephotographer decides to manipulate the image. While technology has provided a much greater ability for photographers to express themselves, in the end the image is what counts and not how you got there."
If you'd like to read all of Mr. Schaub's statements, here's a link to a pdf of the show program:
http://www.carriagebarn.org/09photo...
Well Christian, I know that this response to your sad report may seem like just a lot of shameless self promotion but my intent is broader. I really do feel that the recognition for using the flatbed scanner as a camera has begun. In my case, the process offers an excuse to collaborate with gardeners, farmers, collectors, students and more. Scanning has given my work purpose and a sense of community. It's through that connection that I feel most enriched and encouraged as an artist. Validation for using the flatbed scanner as a camera will continue the more that practitioners visually communicate universal issues through their work as they strive to refine their craft, creating unique imagery with the power to resonate amidst the continuum of photographic processes.
HELLO, I REALLY LIKE THE SITE, BUT I CAN´T FIGURE OUTHOW TO SHARE MY IMAGES AND SO JOIN IN WITH THE REST OF YOU. CAN SOMEONE HELP ME OUT? THANKS