Photography

Ackroyd, Heather and Harvey, Dan. (4 of 5). Oral History of British Photography

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  • Type

    sound

  • Duration

    0:47:30

  • Shelf mark

    C459/132

  • Subjects

    Photography

  • Recording date

    2001-01-03 and 2001-05-25

  • Recording locations

    Dorking and London, United Kingdom

  • Interviewees

    Ackroyd, Heather, 1959-, (speaker, female), Harvey, Dan, 1959-, (speaker, male)

  • Interviewers

    Barnes, Martin, (speaker, male)

  • Abstract

    Part 4. Photosynthesis pieces discussed, appropriate choice of subject matter for the process. Ackroyd and Harvey (A&H) talk about the genesis and making of the photosynthesis installation Afterlife: Lambeth Walk at Beaconsfield Contemporary Art Space. Very large-scale pieces (17 feet high) were grown, almost the full height of the gallery, showing seven, full-length single figures walking across a zebra pedestrian crossing in the locality. Discussion of the difference between the idea and the physical reality of the photosynthesis pieces. When experiences at first hand one is aware of their spectral qualities - their transience and physical, sensory impact. Choice of figures and impressions of the installation at Beaconsfield. Discussion of other large-scale photosynthesis work Testament made for Photo '98. Engagement in the art world - how to sell, collect and conserve intentionally transient works. H&A make dried grass pieces and 1:1 scale black and white prints from photographs of photosynthesis pieces as a way of preserving the images and creating new and different artworks. Evaluation of the possibility of recreating photosynthesis works on request in future. How much the process is part of the work? How to preserve the works for posterity? Could a museum collect the negative and instructions about the process to recreate in future?

  • Description

    Performer notes : Born Daniel Harvey. Recording notes : See also individual interviews with Heather Ackroyd C459/130 and Dan Harvey C459/131.

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