Lost Ground

In continuing the thought process of incorporating red string into my work, I researched other artists who include a tactile element in their photography. I found the work of fine art photographer Linda Alterwitz on Lenscratch (1), and like the way that she incorporates fabric and string into her images, giving them an additional layer of interest and meaning.

I particularly like the subtlety of the additions, which ensures that they enhance the original images and do not detract from them. In the last image I have copied here, you cannot even see the thread unless you specifically look for it.

The article (2) on Lenscratch that accompanies the work includes a statement from Alterwitz on the meaning behind the addition of fabric and string. I think the entire process is very interesting, but also relevant to the work.

“I begin the creative process by photographing and printing places within the natural environment that I consider my personal sanctuary. To provide a representation of human thoughts and emotions, I utilized data output from electroencephalogram (EEG) testing used to analyze electrical activity of the human brain. The data was derived from file records of EEG testing of distressed brains as a visualization of the inconsistencies and aberrations of human thoughts and emotions. The EEG test data was printed directly onto cotton gauze material of the kind used to cover wounds. The gauze “veils” were hand sewn onto archival pigment prints utilizing surgical thread made from nylon monofilament, partially or completely covering the images beneath.

This unique combination of materials echo human emotional responses of pain, healing, vulnerability and protection, reflecting common grounds shared with the health of our planet and society. Ultimately, this work was created to help connect and reinforces the symbiotic relationships that exist within the natural environment, society and the individual.

Each work is constructed by the artist with elements that are created and hand applied with a slight variance. Each piece is signed by the artist en verso.” (Alterwitz, 2019.)

(1) Lenscratch 2020, viewed 22 April 2020, <http://lenscratch.com/>

(2) Alterwitz, L 2017-19, Lost Ground (from the trilogy Envisioning the Veil), photographic series, viewed 22 April 2020, <http://lenscratch.com/2020/03/linda-alterwitz-3/>