In this highlight of the Atelier 33 exhibition, we take a closer look at the work of Amir Viskin. His series, Ephemeral Abstractions is currently on view in the Griffin Main Gallery until March 26, 2021. Drawing inspiration from natural aspects of everyday life, Amir’s work reflects a new appreciation for the world around us in these unprecedented times. We asked Amir a few questions for some insight into his collection.
© Amir Viskin — Untitled – ice, frost, leaf
Which of these images was the impetus for this series? How did it inform how you completed the series?
One of the images that was an impetus for this series is “untitled – ice, frost, leaf.” During the fall I experimented with Macro photography, in an effort to photograph ephemeral elements (ice, frost…), and use them to construct abstract images evocative of imaginary landscapes. This led to a series of abstract compositions in which I also used symmetry and superposition.
How has your photography changed since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic? Has the Atelier been a motivator to persevere through these trying times?
I am first and foremost an outdoor photographer. The pandemic forced me to look for creative opportunities indoors or close to home. That meant finding small objects (stones, ice cubes, milkweed pods), or using Macro photography to get close (frost on a leaf, dew on a spiderweb). The Atelier was a welcoming, safe space in which to create, share ideas with my other talented colleagues and overcome the challenges of isolation.
© Amir Viskin — Untitled – milkweed pod
What do you hope we as viewers take away from viewing your work?
I hope that they view my images as an opportunity to reflect on the shifting meaning of permanence, of what lasts and what disappears, and what is important in this new “normal.”
What did you discover about yourself and your surroundings through the art of abstracting reality?
I became more aware of the beauty of small and ephemeral objects, and their ability to open an internal conversation on the meaning of time and space.
© Amir Viskin — Untitled – water, frost, leaves
Tell us what is next for you creatively.
I plan to continue using light, abstraction of composition as tools to explore the challenges we face as we begin to process the meaning of our collective experience this past year.
You can see more of Amir Viskin’s work on his website.
