After my research I have decided that I'd like to choose a photograph by Alex Prager to be my cultural text as I think it has stronger links to the critical discourses I have been studying during the programme. A link would be much more tenuous were I to select an image from Murray Ballard or Stephen Gill, and as it will be quite a short essay I need a strong clear argument that I can explore in detail, rather than trying to draw upon too many woolly points and failing to present my point articulately.
At the moment I am interested to explore to theories surrounding Intertextuality as it's an idea that suits Prager's imagery perfectly- the notion of referencing and more importantly being shaped by other work. The strength in her photographs comes from her brazen acceptance of not being entirely original, or the sole author of a piece, but instead to utilize the viewers knowledge of and familiarity in the work of others as a positive comparison.
Prager creates incredibly culturally rich outputs, (both photographs and moving image) continually fuelled by and creating a dialogue with references from outside her practice. She references cinema and storytelling through her over-dramatised narratives. This interests me because of the complex range of influence she manages to channel eloquently through her chosen medium of large format colour film.
She often uses incredibly elaborate stages, monumental set ups and copious amounts of fabricated detailing. Her work can combine many elements, however for my essay I have chosen to look a small aspect of her portfolio. Images that manage to convey tension and drama very simply. They are stripped back, Barbara is the epitome of this as it manages to communicate its position, influences and reference numerous other texts through very few rudiments. The simple use of lighting succeeds in creating a story through a simple spotlight. Although likely shot in the studio, the blue backdrop indicates night, whilst the spotlight suggests the inescapable glare of car headlights.
Prager creates incredibly culturally rich outputs, (both photographs and moving image) continually fuelled by and creating a dialogue with references from outside her practice. She references cinema and storytelling through her over-dramatised narratives. This interests me because of the complex range of influence she manages to channel eloquently through her chosen medium of large format colour film.
She often uses incredibly elaborate stages, monumental set ups and copious amounts of fabricated detailing. Her work can combine many elements, however for my essay I have chosen to look a small aspect of her portfolio. Images that manage to convey tension and drama very simply. They are stripped back, Barbara is the epitome of this as it manages to communicate its position, influences and reference numerous other texts through very few rudiments. The simple use of lighting succeeds in creating a story through a simple spotlight. Although likely shot in the studio, the blue backdrop indicates night, whilst the spotlight suggests the inescapable glare of car headlights.
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