USA Projects

About the Works:

“Scenes from Somewhere” is about creating parallel narratives between historical reference and constructed futures, isolating scenes to stage new forms and to highlight collective fear, desire and fantasy.  These works are performative, as I use both self-composites and stand-ins to stage scenes that interrelate and function as stills from a larger picture.  I’m interested in developing relationships with art history and purely fictional creations. The images in this project exist in an in-between space that both connect and disengage with reality, forging a suspension of disbelief as a way to explore body politic and memory.

In Spring of 2012, I will have two back-to-back exhibitions, the first of which is my debut solo-show in Europe, at MC2Gallery in Milan, Italy in April (in partnership with Togonon Gallery, California).  The following exhibition is at the Bosidamjanovic Gallery in New York City beginning in early May.  Each show will have unique works, however both will share the theme and display-method of suspended backlit photographs with exposed fluorescent fixtures mounted behind them.   I’m interested in a more installational approach to the display of my photography because I want the viewer to engage with the work in a direct, psychical way.  Objectives:

1. To print all 20 images for the exhibitions and buy required lighting for display.

2. To travel to Italy and develop my footing in the European art community, and to further expand my presence and publicize my work back home in New York.

3. To print limited edition artist books with any additional or remaining funding that chronicles this project and my process.  Additional funding past the minumum goal is encouraged to execute this objective.

Conclusion:

Your financial support can make this project a reality.  Without adequate funding, “Scenes from Somewhere: photography that reinvents past and future” won’t take shape, and my opportunity to show in Europe and develop my career in New York will fall short.  Your contribution will help ensure my work reaches a diverse and international audience, taking its place in contemporary art today.

I appreciate you reading about my project, I encourage you to visit my website, www.deandempsey.com for more information, or visit my Showcase page.  I am tremendously gracious for your support.  Thank you.