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One of my favorite fine art photographers, Alexandra Silverthorne is having an Open Studio (one night only!) tonight at Heineman Myers Gallery from 6-8 p.m.
Because of her intriguing work, I wanted to get a closer view of what makes this popular photographer in the Washington, DC area tick. Below is a recent interview including some of the work that will be featured at tonight's event.
1. Tell us about your interest in capturing the everyday, where does that inspiration come from?
I'm most interested in capturing images that allow us to understand space, and the everyday is certainly a great part of this. Over the past year, I have begun to explore the importance of knowing a space and the greater context which we receive through this knowledge. This context allows us to better grasp a person, a history, an experience, a conflict, etc. I'm often reminded of a Robert Frank: "There is one thing the photograph must contain, the humanity of the moment." Understanding a space helps us highlight that humanity of the moment.
2. Do you prefer to print in black and white or color? Why
I have a deep love for black and white photography, and especially for the process of printing in a wet darkroom. For better or for worse, I've been working digitally this past year and printing in both black and white and color. Early on in each project, a certain instinct kicks in as to what will work best for the series. A lot of it comes down to the intentions of the project, specifically what I am trying to communicate through it.
3. What artists and photographers do you admire (living or dead)? Why?
There definitely is not a short answer to this question. Photographically speaking, my early work was heavily influenced by street photographers such as Harry Callahan, Robert Frank, and Bruce Davidson. More recently, I greatly admire Hiroshi Sugimoto's work, which is just absolutely stunning. Other more contemporary favorites include Maria Magdalena Campos-Pons and Moyra Davey. "Long Life Cool White: Photographs & Essays by Moyra Davey" was one of my favorite reads last fall and I definitely recommend it to anyone interested in exploring photography. Each of these photographers use the camera, and the medium of photography as a whole, in such a magnificent and innovative manner.
4. What is your impression of the DC Art Scene?
The DC Art Scene is fantastic. From institutions and commercial galleries to non-profit organizations and community groups, there's something for everyone here. Furthermore, the caliber of the artists that we have coming into DC for exhibitions and presentations is amazing. In the last few months alone, we have had public talks by artists, including Jeremy Deller (at Provisions Library), Mel Chin (at Arlington Arts Center), Nina Katchadourian (at the Corcoran), and Robert Frank (at the National Gallery of Art). I grew up in Washington and am really excited to be involved in such a great scene.
5. What should we expect to see at this Open House?
The Open House features two pieces that I have been working on this semester. The first is a floor installation based on a collection of photographs of discarded objects from Bryce Park. It's a study of the ways in which we communicate through an urban public space. The second is a 4-channel slideshow of late night explorations of unfamiliar landscapes. At the core of it, is the desire to capture an understanding of the land around me through the use gut reactions and instincts.
6. What series or projects are you currently working on now?
In June, I am headed up to Portland, ME for my second summer intensive at Maine College of Art's MFA program where I will continue working towards an understanding of space. I plan to work on fine-tuning the projects mentioned above as well as begin a new series exploring the Maine coastline and the space of the ocean.
7. How can people contact you if they are interested in your work?
The best way to contact me is through my website: www.alexandrasilverthorne.com.
Heineman Myers Gallery
4728 Hampden Lane
Bethesda, Maryland 20814
Bethesda, Maryland 20814
Telephone: 301-951-7900
info@heinemanmyers.com
Comments
Sharon,
This is Tom, the Baltimore Movies Examiner. A friend of mine put me onto a great show coming up called the Artomatic (or AOM) in D.C. He is actually one of the artists and would also be willing to do a Q & A via email if you would like to ask some questions. It sounds like a great show, run by volunteers and something that would be right up your alley. Let me know if you would like his email and such to do a piece on it.
show site artomatic.org
Feel free to email me for more info or would like my friend's email address.
Thanks,
Tom
TomExaminer@gmail.com
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