Lens Reflex Part 1

Lens Reflex investigates the intersection between photography and fine craft. While these two mediums may seem unrelated, our participating artists have found connections between these contrasting mediums and techniques.

Photography offers controlled observation of an environment and, in the era of smartphone digital photography, immediate inexpensive documentation of our lives. Fine craft has an emphasis on slow, controlled, technique focused handwork. 

The three central ceramic installations of Eruptions – Pyre with Amphoras and Lifeline, Pyre with Tumble Stack and Lifelineand Pyre with Flower Brick and Lifeline – are themselves multi-layered allegories. 

"Spectre connects two seemingly disparate media that are both fundamental elements of my artistic practice. Although my primary medium is hand embroidery, I have long studied the fascinating ways in which photography and hand embroidery converse."

The mobile phone is a relatively new technology influencing all of our lives. It has changed how we obtain information and communicate using social media platforms.

The built in camera with instant results allows easy access to photography and the subsequent rise in popularity of the “selfie”.

This has increased our obsession with physical appearance to the point of narcissism. The “selfie”paired with public sharing impacts our sense of self-importance.