Vision

All that we see is merely reflections of light. We see not objects, but the light that reflects off the visual field before us. The light we see also reflects what it touches within. The images that surround us, these reflections of light from within and without, have the potential to refer us back to something deeper and more essential within. Images can also guide us towards what we want to become, towards the life we aspire to lead, towards how we wish to inhabit and relate to the world around us. The images in this portfolio offer my inspiration of a relationship to the world that is at ease, reverent, and responsive, both quiet and wakeful.

Original Artistic Process

Each image begins as a composite of captured images which is made into a slide transparency and then a Polaroid transfer. Polaroid image transfers are created by exposing an image onto Polaroid peel-apart film. The film is pulled apart before completely developed and then the negative side is pressed onto watercolor paper. Thus the print dyes of the negative are transferred onto the surface of the paper. The Polaroid transfer process imparts a dreamy, old-world feeling.

Next, the transfers are scanned and the elements of transfers are recomposited. The mood and evocative nature of the images are then developed via the artful application of digital processes to control color, saturation, contrast, blur and other factors. These processes allow the construction of photographic components into the form of the artist's vision. No longer is the photographic artist limited by the composition in front of the camera. One's imagination becomes the only limit.

Latest Artistic Process

In my more recent work, "Flight of Fancy" (China, TTV Birds, and the Bosque), I am no longer using Polaroid transfers. Currently I am scanning various textures and adding them as layers. TTV means "through-the-lens". These images have an added darkened edge and corners giving them a vintage look. I have mounted some of my newer images on archival panels and added acrylic paint and other media. You can see these on ETSY (www.barbaracarter.etsy.com).

Printing Process

These images are printed in limited editions on acid-free Somerset Velvet or Hahnemuhle Smooth Fine Art paper with HP Vivera or Espon Ultra-chrome archival inks. The paper and ink combination I use allows for intensely saturated yet velvety color with clean highlights and increased detail on a sensuous textured surface. The ink and paper combination also creates prints that last longer than conventional (wet chemistry) color prints.

To contact BARBARA CARTER:
24 Condesa Road
Santa Fe, NM 87508

PHONE 505-820-9331 or 505-670-8231

barbaracarter@mindspring.com