Lobotomy Lab: Wisdom of Words
Lobotomy Lab: Offering piercing insights into photography
We have likely all seen photos that are not really that good passed off as fine art. Perhaps even more so with sculptures, paintings, and live performance pieces, some bearing so few similarities to the more familiar aspects of the arts it is hart to even recognize them as their sated medium let alone as a representation of art. With the difficulties of getting photos into a gallery or selling original photography, how exactly does this happen? When do bad photos become art?
Well If you take the time to read the pamphlets handed out at art exhibits or attend artist talks you quickly find there is always something going on behind the frame. Often a lot of untold work and research not to mention complex social commentary. A lot of this only comes through or is only accessible outside of a major showing through writing.
It may seem like a cheat to some or convenient excuse, yet I have come to think it is anything but that. These writings offer historic background and context that is almost impossible to convey in plain imagery alone.
I am quite confident that a great deal of art photography is considered good more so based on the writing and salesmanship behind it. I would even go so far as to say the writing is the ultimate selling point (both literally and figuratively) behind most art. If you have ever been in a serious art environment people will frequently ask about or makes references to the accompanying “artist statement.” Grants for art projects are awarded based largely on essays, with some goings far as to never even asking to see sample visuals.
As you are reading this you may start to wonder if this article has any alter motives. A fair question as the answers is a very round about yes. While I type out this particular rant of mine, I have no illusion that it will not win me a prestigious place in the halls of the arts. But it doesn't help men develop my writing skills as well as honing my skills in analyzing and researching topics. These skills are essential in creating responses and developing a meaningful voice.
I have long held a habit of writing down ideas in a notebook, and often adding reference points or locations or dates to develop ideas or plans. This is true for photography, trips and financial ventures. I have generally found it helpful if not limited in its greater effects.
In the last few years I have taken to writing about my photography far more than ever in the past. Some writings akin to an artist statement, some just long journal like notes on where I went and what I encountered. Another habit that goes along with this trend is my zine scribblings. A habit that while not entirely my own, is not too common from what I have seen. That is to say I make proofs of potential zines, most of which need reworking and a follow up proof or simply go no where. Rather than throw them out I use the margins as places to write notes some times in relation to the project, individual photo or something inspired by the work.
While what I do is not really related to the artist statements of major galleries, It does make me think and that thinking almost always gives me a sense of accomplishment and keeps me going a little longer and trying a little harder.
