“Monochromacy”

     In 2020 I was completing a large landscape commission and discovered something while photographing the work in monochrome to check the values of my colours. I noticed that two of the colours had merged seamlessly into one gray tone. It was a revelation that made me want to explore and discover how to implement this phenomenon in my fine art.
     My newest work is a series of diptychs created from acrylic paintings and their companion monochrome photographic prints.

     Specific colours are mixed and used in the painting so that they merge into a predetermined value in monochrome photography. This means that those elements in the colour painting vanish or change shape. By being denied colour perception the content of the image has changed as we are blind to existing elements.  “Monochromacy” is the closest term I could find to describe this.
     I began with portraits, then words and symbols, but I wanted to include these illusions with realism. The next piece was a homage to Johannes Vermeer. This was followed by universal themes such as the experiences of youth, parenting, motherhood, sleeping, dreaming and aging. What is hidden in the photographs is seen in the paintings. Lost and found is presented to the viewer with the intention of encouraging inquiry, thought and enlightenment.
     We all have fears, dreams and beliefs that are questioned and challenged throughout our lives. Some are lost, some are found. Beliefs and opinions are results of tradition, education, relationshipes and intuition, not necessarily the science of cold hard facts.
When we open our minds we have the chance to perceive and feel something new. My new work is trying to visually nudge that door open and make you wonder, question and come to your own conclusions.
     These diptychs are examples of how the medium chosen to present an image plays a vital role in how the narrative is perceived. It is our individual perceptions and conclusions about common shared experiences makes us unique and creates diversity.
Each diptych I have created has led to ideas for more new work. What seems hidden can be seen, what seems lost can be found.