I’m typically interested in topics related to biological research and conservation. My recent series – Monochromatic Symptoms – however, explores themes around space colonization. The series has been made in collaboration with contemporary poet Joshua Bird. While not completely void of my more usual interests, the main theme is the exploration of places that are assumed lifeless. 

During my three-week residency at the Cyan Studio in Oslo I continued to work with Monochromatic Symptoms. In the series Bird and I assume the role of a researcher who, while studying the planet Mars, has become overly entangled with isolation and the monotone landscape. I create imaginary photographic research material, combining some of the images with Bird’s texts.

The series was in its final stage, and I wanted to add a few more new works while putting all the pieces together. I had previously developed a technique that combines lumen and contact printing with some elements from the chemigram process, as this technique enables work in my home studio that lacks a wet darkroom. Cyan’s darkroom offered a chance to further experiment with the technique, as I was able to add developing chemicals to the mix. I also used my original method for testing different photographic papers and found some new favorites. I think the resulting works nicely expand the visuals of the series.