PO5, 2011 © Max de Esteban/Courtesy of Klompching Gallery, NYC
Barcelona-based artist Max de Esteban, takes us back-to-the-future with his latest project Proposition One, where he meticulously deconstructs the cutting edge technology of yesterday. The cameras, tape decks, typewriters and projectors—all tools of used in the creation and dissemination of visual and sound art—are shot layer-by-layer and photographically reassembled. The result is retro-chic, x-ray-like artworks displaying an evocative look into the inner workings and complex designs of these devices. The Artist Reception for Max de Esteban’s Proposition One is Thursday, November 3rd, from 6–9, the exhibit will be on view through December 9th at Klompching Gallery, New York City.
PO4, 2011 © Max de Esteban/Courtesy of Klompching Gallery, NYC
PO17, 2011 © Max de Esteban/Courtesy of Klompching Gallery, NYC
PO3, 2011 © Max de Esteban/Courtesy of Klompching Gallery, NYC
PO15, 2011 © Max de Esteban/Courtesy of Klompching Gallery, NYC
As my 7th grade student says, “Awesome!” And these works of art are even more compelling on paper. For those who love to take things apart (and especially those who can’t quite put them back together), these meticulously composited photographs inspire curiosity and satisfaction — all at once.
We are wondering how lengthy, tedious, and arduous a session for just one of the pieces must be.
ChristyD – Expressive Learning – Scotts Valley, CA
These are very impressive indeed! Love them..
Christy:
I really dont want to belittle the efforts by the artist, but rather encourage you in that i dont think they are terribly difficult to do at all.
From what i can see and from how i would recreate them, there is 2 or max. 3 layers for each photograph. Especially in the last one it looks like the item to be photographed was sprayed white to get that look. Here is how i would do it:
1. set up a tripod with a camera, preferably above the subject. White background, a few lights from a few sides to reduce shadows.
2. put down the item and make a few tiny marks with a pencil so the object can be put back in the same spot.
3.Spray the whole thing white and take the first picture.
4. Remove whatever cover there is and spray the newly exposed parts white. Place back and take another image. Maybe remove a few more parts and repeat.
5. Thats it, the rest is some basic photoshopping, or use Pixelmator if you want a free (and somewhat simpler) alternative.
6. For a proper X-Ray look invert the image (incidentally if you are on a mac, you can try it here on the website: Press Ctrl-Alt-Cmd-8 to invert the whole screen. They look very x-rayish then.. press again to go back to normal)
I hope this has encouraged you to maybe even try this with your students. I would have loved that when i was at school! Old electrical goods can be found free from the skip and you could have a few students work on an item they brought in. Maybe start with 2 layers at first. Let me know if you need any help.. :)
Again cudos to the artist, they are great shots!!