Fish 25

A piece of an analog photographic series (A pond of unconscious) depicting different water creatures. The photographs have been heavily modified in the darkroom with different chemical and physical techniques.

The monochrome domain, the analog photographic methods, the different handcrafting techniques and the manual manipulations are all defining elements. Like the alchemist in her den, I abstract reality. In this series I enlarged and magically transformed sea creatures into demonic totems.

The models I have found in zoos, museums, markets and sometimes on the kitchen counter. Photographing them was only the initial step, the real creative work happened in my darkroom. Through numerous steps I have pealed off the realistic elements of these animals and washed away their naturalistic traits. Play and chance are essential in my personal practice, as opposed to the controlled environment in my commissioned printing work. I am continuously pushing the boundaries of traditional silver gelatin printing.

While fishing for the secrets of the Deep in the amber light, these mythological, demonic totems are emerging from my darkroom trays, swimming into the light, whispering to the unconscious. Through this creative voyage I explore the hidden, spiritual world that humanity tries to comprehend for thousands of years.

You can see the whole series here: https://www.csillaszabo.com/fish/