Images of my work at the Group Exhibition – Maelstrom – at the Wasp Gallery in Glasgow

This is an updated (draft) artist statement, still a bit rough though.

The primary focus of the photographer should be purely visual, where image supersedes any pre-contextualized meaning that has its basis in language: Formalism over conceptual-ism. Using contextualization and reference to derive meaning is a dated concept that has exhausted its potency.

Within my practice I am unaware of ‘sub text’ or ‘concept’ until the work is done, as for me It is all done subconsciously. I work in a tactile and intuitive way, currently with what has become a three stage process.

The process starts with physically altering the film negative, then laying out the print, and finally aggressively altering the print after it has been mounted onto aluminum. Working this way allows freedom, instinct and the pure visual to be my guide. Creating within the confines of reference, contextualization and subtext, as in conceptual-ism, is restrictive and disruptive.

This fits directly with what I have realized to be the concept of my work, the three stage process in which the human consciousness functions. My primary focus is the subconscious and the emotional impact of when the subconscious comes to consciousness, the state of realization and how these realizations reveal what has shaped and formed an individual.

Within the recesses of our subconscious lies what creates our individuality – so many events, situations, ideas and emotions. Most have been forgotten, but given the chance could tear us apart with unrealized characteristics of our own persona.

Bellow are five images of close up’s of a few of the final images mounted on aluminum.

These are mounted on perspex and are about 16 x 20, but the prints will be mounted on aluminum and be 20 x 24 =).

Here are some close up images of the prints

Within the recesses of our subconscious lies what creates our individuality – so many events, situations, ideas and emotions. Most have been forgotten, but given the chance could tear us apart with unrealized characteristics of our own persona.

The majority of my thinking lately has been about how, in my opinion the art of photography has become stagnant. Bland photographs are given a hyped up sense of being by an over articulated artist statement. The medium has been consumed by an ‘it has all been done’ attitude, and has moved into the purely conceptual, where ironically enough the image itself has been left behind when it should be the primary focus.

These are the two newest pieces of mine that will be on display at Gallery Z from Dec 9th – 22nd. Also included is information on there creation and purpose, this is located bellow the images. ENJOY, and let me know what you think!

The larger of the two is a 4/4 sized violin (full size), and the other is a ½ sized violin. The ½ sized violin was in poor condition when I received it and has been sanded re-finished and re-sealed by myself.

For the image to be able to be applied to the instrument a layer of white alkyd paint was first applied. This allows me to use a photographic emulsion, without the base coat of paint the emulsion would not be able to adhere to the instrument.

The emulsion is then chemically processed through a standard black and white darkroom. After the emulsion was fully dried I then applied a layer of clear varnish over the image for protection.

I chose to use violins, and the imagery of graffiti to create a juxtaposition. In some cases graffiti is seen as beautiful works of art. However for the most part is is seen as harsh, crass and vulgar.

While on the other hand violins, even on there worst days are seen as refined, delicate and beautiful instruments.

So this month Dec 9th I will have a few pieces in Gallery Z’s “Functional Objects of Desire” show. The opening reception is Dec 17th from 5-9pm.
One of my works (the violin at the bottom) is displayed int he card bellow.

Hello, I have about 5 remaining copies of a book I have created – Experiances, Dreams, Events and Scars. With Introductions by Glenn Lavertu a teacher at RISD and BCC, and also by the Poet / Essayist Len Sousa. Bellow are a few Images of the book. If you are interested in purchasing the price is $25.00 ( 15.00 GBP ). I accpet personal check or Pay-Pal.

If interested please e-mail me at jeffedwardsphotography@yahoo.com

Thank you!

Hello, It has been a while since I have last updated this blog so here is what has been going on from past to future.

Past:

Grimshaw-Gudewicz Art gallery: 1st All Media Juried Exhibition

May 28, 2009 — June 26, 2009

*Distinction Award*

Four Courners Art’s Center 4th Annual Juried Photography Exhibit

July 23rd – 27th, 2009

Awarded 3rd Place

Current:

I am currently in work on several projects for upcoming shows in late 2009 – early 2010 ontop of continuing my Bfa at Glasgow School of Art

Future:

Gallery Z: Video Art / projection / installation
Gallery Z will host its first Video Art exhibition in a progressive and experimental genre in contemporary art.
Show Dates:  November 3 –November 28, 2009; Opening Reception: November 19th, 5-9p

Gallery Z: Functional Objects of Desire
This show highlights the functional aspect of artwork in order to allow viewers to engage in the arts in their everyday lives.
Show Dates:  December 1 –January 2, 2009; Opening Reception: December 17th, 5-9pm