SOLAR ARCHIVE PROJECT (2019 - )
Solar X-Rays, Solar (De)Compositions
From left to right, this triptych reveals dappled light through a pinhole camera,
the effects of solar retinopathy, and X-rays of the Sun.
(sunburn) with allium cepa
Onion-skin anthotypes were mailed to individuals who then exposed
the photosensitive materials. Exposures lasted several weeks.
(redacted)
Unfixed silver prints were mailed to individuals who then exposed
the photosensitive materials. Exposures lasted several minutes.
UV effects on chemical bonds
A found book on photography that shows signs of sun fading.
b l i n d s p o t
This in-progress 16mm film centers on the history and practice of sun-gazing. The work reflects on the scientists and spiritualists that have sustained solar retinopathy (i.e. retinal damage from the sun) in order
to either understand vision or attain visions.
Description:
This ongoing project attempts to document and trace the sun. It includes photosensitive materials, contemporary scientific data, historical documents, and ephemeral solar objects. Within this archive, sunlight exists as an agent in the creation of its own record—both chemically and physically—bleaching, darkening, and affecting the materials subject to its radiation. In the experience of this work, the observer becomes entangled with these solar materials and is implicated through their own exploration, participating in and with the instability of the archive.