Incidents, 2010
In these images I am exploring themes involving murders that occurred on sovereign lands. Using past events as a guide, I question the veracity of the medium. The scenes were created based on records portrayed from several perspectives. Referring to fictional and non-fictional writings, PBS documentaries, and accounts from individuals, being removed from these situations inevitably lends one to formulate their own interpretations. The settings appear as if they are from a movie documentary told by a non-interfering witness.
The “fabricated to be photographed” narrative has become increasingly popular in today’s photography. When I first started making dioramas it was a departure from prior ventures of documenting everyday life witnessed in the landscape. I am not so much interested in these scenes appearing realistic as much as I am that they lend a suspension of disbelief. The images allow the audience to engage their minds rather than viewing them from an “as a matter of fact” point of view. Using materials such as paper, paint, dirt, and other basic items I enjoy working with limited resources. Drawing from what you have opens endless possibilities to one’s imagination.
There is an age-old thought that if you photograph something without contriving it that it tells the truth. This statement is debatable; however, I find that both directing and non-interference have plenty of opportunities for storytelling. The camera lens is a tool that exaggerates the worlds we create. It begs us to reconsider our understanding of the real.