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.
Heat transfer
A roll of Kodak Portra film was left to degrade in the desert heat.
Discoloration and other aberrations can be seen.
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 It includes photosensitive materials, contemporary scientific data, historical documents, and ephemeral solar objects.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.