Submitted Images, by Tori Bohm and Maegan Scott
Artist Statement:
LIFELESS
Industrial landscapes hold a
fascination in the way they can juxtapose society’s need for economic activity
against the feelings of isolation and coldness that these landscapes create.
These feelings are on two different levels, firstly the separation of human
interaction in this cold urban landscape and also the separation of human
activity from their natural environment. This theme of separation is emphasised
throughout the series. The derelict and unsightly factory buildings dominate
the landscape. They set a bleak scene. There is no greenery and nothing seems
to be alive. The human shapes which have been superimposed into the bleak
landscape are themselves isolated from each other and appear plastic and
lifeless to highlight the theme of separation. They are also not interacting
with their surroundings. The gathering clouds in the sky are a symbol of a storm
brewing over the scene as a result of this unnatural, stilted flow of energy.
A Nikon D90 with an
18-105mm lens was used to allow all of the subject matter to be included in the
images. Using a DSLR camera enabled us to work with wide angle and high quality
photographs to produce panoramic landscapes. These materials and processes are
relevant to our concept of separation because the images highlight the extent
of the gradual degradation of our physical and emotional environments over
time. We were drawn to the desolate landscape and abandoned structures in Port
Adelaide because the sheer vastness of the panoramic images creates an
emotional reaction in the audience. We expose the gritty and run-down nature of
the abandoned industrial infrastructure and consequently experiment with
physical and mental isolation of people. The architectural figures used are
plain, white individuals that complement the bleak landscape and reinforce the
theme of separation and lifelessness. Some people may view the image this way
and then think more deeply about its meaning. These figures have been separated
but also seem as if they are being drawn into the centre. They seem to have a
lack of individuality as they all look similar and are following one and other
like sheep. The rest of the story is now in the hands of those who view the
images and their emotional reaction to the panoramas.
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