“Afterimage” by Kelly M Hider

Description

Afterimage is a new series of work that begins with found photographs of gardens

and floral arrangements from the 1930s – selected for their lush patterns,

compositions, and high contrast. Through layering of photocopies and single-color

transparencies, photographed and digitally edited, the original images are

transformed into abstract, haunted botanical scenes. Moments that were

composed and captured by an unknown photographer now seem to miraculously

exist by way of the object passing hands for nearly a century. 

This legacy is further transformed through layering, tracing, and shifting of the

image. The original allure of these transitional moments is highlighted through

carefully applied surface embellishments – further expressions of the artist’s

hand. Seductive and unsettling, these shimmering forms both hide behind the

primary images, as well as assert their presence. Acknowledging death, as

exemplified by preserved fleeting moments, these works are at once a lament as

well as a celebration. 

The original photograph acts to memorialize an ephemeral moment, and through

my alterations, I form a collaboration with the anonymous photographer, the

natural space, and the history of photography. From object to collaged

photocopies, to digital editing and reproduction, back to an embellished object –

the vernacular image becomes fine art. A transformation carried into surreal,

illuminated spaces.

website:

https://kellyhider.com/