Project Exhibition 2023: Truth, Lies and Vision

About

Project Exhibition 2023: Truth, Lies and Vision explores our relationships with the real, photography’s ability to re-define how we capture our memories and our views of the future.

What if we think about our relationships with the photographic image not through its presumed connection to the real, but through its capacity to capture an imagined view of the world? As AI generators have been recently upending the conversation around the viability of the photographic image, LACP’s annual Project Exhibition will remind that the question of manipulation has actually been at the core of photographic practice since its inception in 1839. Between reality and imagination, truth and lies, from ghost photographs to digital technologies, our field is constantly being re-defined by new developments that stabilize how we understand photography and how the world sees our field.

The Juror

Andrea Jenkins Wallace of Anderson Ranch Arts Center, Vice President of Artistic Affairs, Artistic Director of Photography and New Media; Chair of The Center

After completing an undergraduate degree in Communications Media, Andrea Jenkins Wallace received her M.F.A. from the University of Colorado Boulder. Before coming to the Ranch in 2008, she worked for over ten years in academia, holding tenure track appointments at Lake Forest College and Willamette University. She is often an invited speaker to colleges and universities including Pratt Institute, the University of Denver and the University of South Florida. She has also been a featured speaker at the Denver Art Museum and the Stonewall National Museum. In 2021, Wallace co-taught a class entitled Photography, Race and Gender at Colorado College. Her film, Rochell and Brian, a documentary about teenage pregnancy, premiered at the New York International Independent Film Festival. She exhibits nationally and internationally with numerous shows throughout the Americas, Europe, China and the Middle East.

Juror Statement

It was a privilege to serve as a juror for 2023: TRUTH, LIES AND VISION and to witness the immense talent, creativity, and dedication of the artists who contributed to this diverse and thought-provoking collection of contemporary images.

One of the most striking aspects of this exhibition is the remarkable diversity of images presented. The range of subjects, styles, and techniques showcased a breadth of artistic vision and creativity. From constructed fictional narratives to straight black and white documentary photographs, the exhibition encompasses a wide spectrum of visual storytelling. This diversity not only highlights the richness of human experiences but also provides viewers with a comprehensive view of the world we inhabit.

I was particularly impressed by the sheer number of applicants and the high quality of submissions received. The competition was fierce, reflecting the depth of talent within the contemporary photography community. The selected artworks stand out not only for their technical proficiency but also for their ability to provoke thought and elicit emotional responses. Each image was constructed with care and thoughtfulness, demonstrating the artists’ dedication to their craft and their commitment to creating meaningful visual narratives.

Moreover, the exhibition seeks to present constructed and thoughtful images that go beyond mere documentation. The artists showcase a keen understanding of composition, lighting, and storytelling, using their photographs to convey powerful messages and explore complex themes of race, power, gender and personal struggles. The exhibition  incorporates personal images that relate to contemporary issues and discourse. By infusing their work with personal narratives, the artists add layers of authenticity and emotional depth to this exhibition. The artists demonstrate a deep engagement with contemporary issues, addressing topics such as identity, race, social justice, mental health and human relationships. Through their lens, they provide valuable perspectives on the challenges and complexities of our world, inviting viewers to reflect, question, and engage in meaningful conversations.

I want to commend the LACP for their creation and support of this exhibition. The careful curation and the exceptional quality of the artworks have created a space where art and discourse converge, stimulating intellectual curiosity and emotional resonance. I have no doubt that this exhibition will leave a lasting impact on its viewers, encouraging them to see the world from different perspectives and inspiring them to take action in their own communities.

Thank you for the opportunity to be part of this enriching experience. I am deeply honored to have been involved and look forward to witnessing the continued success and impact these artists have as they continue in their careers.

-Andrea Jenkins Wallace