Nominated by Columbia College Chicago Kristen Kula's current work, unPhotograph, is a series of photographs which examines and deconstructs the traditionally taught photographic process. The predetermined procedure of taking a photograph is identified through emphasis on deliberate decision-making, and perfectly outlined techniques and methods, which lead to mechanical reproduction and an over-saturation of sterile images. Kula breaks down the commercialism of photography, effectively negating the perception that the product is greater than the process. Through the use of deconstructive techniques, Kula identifies and tests the structural potential of the light sensitive material, and embraces the unexpected - effectively dismissing the autonomous control of the photographer. Kristen Kula is a visual artist and curator living and working in Chicago. She is a recent graduate of Columbia College Chicago. Image: Scrap, Chromogenic development print, 15" x 15" x 10", 2013.
LAUNCH Invitational